Trustworthy AI: The European way as a locational advantage
23.03.2026
The newly founded Transfer Center for Privacy Engineering at the FHV - in cooperation with Salzburg Research - is funded by the European Regional Development Fund for Investment for Jobs and Growth (IWB/EFRE) and deals with precisely this question: How can the European way become a competitive advantage? The aim is to develop technical solutions and scientifically sound methods for privacy-friendly machine learning and to support companies in the region in combining data protection and AI innovation.
"Trustworthy AI is not an obstacle, but a clear locational advantage for Europe. With our transfer centre, we show companies how data protection and AI innovation can be combined to create sustainable competitive advantages," emphasizes Guido Kempter, Head of the Human-Centred Technologies (HCT) research centre.
Why a transfer center for privacy engineering?
Digitalization is advancing rapidly, and with it the use of sensitive data - whether in healthcare, industry or retail. At the same time, the requirements for data protection and data security are increasing. The Transfer Center for Privacy Engineering pools expertise in the areas of data safety, data security and data ethics and develops solutions that are technologically innovative and at the same time ethically, legally and scientifically sound.
In addition to research, transfer competence is being developed in a targeted manner: Companies, organizations and public bodies are to be actively involved in the use and further development of data protection-friendly technologies. This will make the center not only a place of scientific expertise, but also a driving force for responsible digitalization in the region.
In conversation with Patrick Jost, project manager of the Privacy Engineering Transfer Center at the FHV's HCT research centre: "Privacy engineering as the key to Europe's AI strategy"
Why is the topic of 'trustworthy AI' so crucial for Europe and the Vorarlberg region right now?
With the AI Act and the GDPR, Europe has created clear rules that protect fundamental rights. This is a strong signal for responsible digitalization. At the same time, we need to show that regulation does not prevent innovation, but promotes it. We want to develop technical solutions that combine data protection and AI innovation.
Many see regulation as a brake on innovation. You say it is a competitive advantage. Why?
Because trust is a decisive factor. Companies that use demonstrably secure and ethical AI systems have a clear advantage, especially in sensitive areas such as healthcare or industry. Europe can be a pioneer here.
What is the specific aim of the transfer center?
We develop methods and algorithms for privacy-friendly machine learning and pass this expertise on to companies. Our aim is to create solutions that not only work technically, but are also ethically and legally sound.
What technical solutions or methods are you developing to combine data protection and AI innovation? Can you give some examples?
We are working on processes that make data usable without jeopardizing privacy. One example is adding "noise" to data sets: This leaves patterns recognizable, but individual people are not identifiable. The challenge is to find the right balance, i.e. enough protection without losing the information content.
What are the current challenges in implementing privacy-friendly AI solutions?
In addition to Engineering and Technology, human behavior is crucial. Many IT systems are so complex that users often make data protection decisions without thinking. We develop approaches that make these processes more transparent and help to enable more conscious and well-considered decisions.
What are the benefits for companies in Vorarlberg?
They gain access to expertise and can implement pilot projects together with us. This strengthens their competitiveness and prepares them for the requirements of the European market.
What does 'trustworthy AI' look like for you in 2030?
Trusthworthy AI in 2030 will follow transparent rules that reflect ethical and social values. It thus works reliably in the interests of people and gives them space and time for reflective and mindful cooperation.
Outlook: Cooperation and opportunities for the region
The Transfer Centre for Privacy Engineering is open to cooperation with companies, organizations and public bodies. Joint projects, workshops and further training courses are planned in order to anchor the topic of "responsible AI" in the region. Europe has the opportunity to become a global role model for AI innovations - not despite regulation, but thanks to a clear framework that combines innovation and fundamental rights. The Privacy Engineering Transfer Center at the FHV wants to play an active role in shaping this pa
About IBW/EFRE & JTF
ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) funding aims to strengthen regional business, research and innovation, increase the competitiveness of companies and balance out structural differences between regions. The EU funding program for regional development IBW/EFRE & JTF promotes innovation, growth and climate protection. The aim is to enable sustainable economic growth, reduce resource consumption and thus strengthen the competitiveness of Austria and its regions in the long term. Appropriate project funding is intended to increase productivity, promote sustainability in Business and Management and have a positive impact on people's quality of life. More at www.efre.gv.at.
Contact
Patrick JOST, BSc MA MA MSc PhD
Scientist
Research Center Human-Centred Technologies
+43 5572 792 3712
patrick.jost@fhv.at
