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Minister discusses digitalization, AI research and data centers with companies
Hesse's Digital Minister Kristina Sinemus informed the general assembly of the Darmstadt Rhine-Main-Neckar Chamber of Industry and Commerce about current developments in digitalization in Hesse. Topics included the digitalization of public administration, the expansion of artificial intelligence, and the role of data centers for the economic region.
Sinemus emphasized that Hesse is strategically positioning itself as a leading digital and AI location in Germany and Europe. Key areas of action include faster administrative digitization, the expansion of the AI ecosystem, and the further development of the state as a data center location.
More speed in the digitization of public administration
The meeting also focused on the digitalization initiative launched in September 2025 by the federal government, Hesse, and Bavaria. The goal is to further digitize administrative services and make them more easily accessible.
According to the minister, by the end of 2026, services that are used particularly frequently – such as changes of address, residence permits or permits under immission control law – should be available digitally nationwide.
Christian Jöst, President of the Darmstadt Rhine-Main-Neckar Chamber of Industry and Commerce, welcomed the initiative. He stated that a modern and efficient administration has a significant impact on the competitiveness of companies. Digital processes can accelerate procedures and enable projects to be completed more quickly.
AI research in Darmstadt
Another focus of the discussion was the development of artificial intelligence. The location of the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence in Darmstadt also played an important role in this.
According to the minister, the location serves as a central innovation hub in Hesse's AI ecosystem. The aim is to provide greater support, particularly to small and medium-sized enterprises, in the implementation of AI applications.
Data centers as the key to digital infrastructure
In addition to research and administration, the importance of high-performance data centers was also discussed. These are indispensable for data-intensive applications such as AI.
Sinemus pointed out that Hesse is one of the leading international locations for data centers. Investments by international companies underscore the importance of the location.
Chamber of Commerce President Jöst also sees a high-performance digital infrastructure as a key location factor. In addition to data centers, the expansion of broadband and mobile networks is crucial for companies to remain competitive and drive innovation.
(DARMSTADT – RED/IHK)
Featured image: Digital Minister Prof. Dr. Kristina Sinemus . Photo: Darmstadt Chamber of Industry and Commerce / Klaus Mai
