ASEF
News

ASEF Becomes Partner of the New AI Competence Center (KCUI)

January 21, 2026

We are pleased to announce that the ASEF Institute has joined the strategic consortium led by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (GZS) to manage the newly established AI Competence Center (KCUI). This project represents a key milestone for Slovenia’s technological development and the integration of science with the economy.

Ljubljana, January 20, 2026 – Slovenia has established a central entry point for the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The KCUI connects key stakeholders from the economy, research institutions, and the educational sector. Its primary goal is to ensure the efficient, safe, and responsible implementation of AI in Slovenian companies, thereby increasing their competitiveness in the international market.

The Role of ASEF: A Bridge to Global Knowledge and Talent

Within the consortium, the ASEF Institute plays a crucial role in providing core capacity based on international cooperation. ASEF will serve as:

  • A Bridge Abroad: Activating an international network of Slovenian talents and transferring global expertise directly into the Slovenian ecosystem.
  • A Source of Global Trends: Providing insights into the latest global practices and trends in the field of AI.
  • International Outreach: Strengthening the visibility of the Slovenian AI environment abroad and integrating top scientists from around the world into local programs and events.

Collaborative Network

In addition to GZS and ASEF, the consortium includes the University of Ljubljana (Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, and Faculty of Law), the Jožef Stefan Institute, the University of Maribor (Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science), the Chamber of Craft and Small Business of Slovenia (OZS), the University of Primorska (Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies), and the University of Nova Gorica.

The project is financially supported by the Ministry of Digital Transformation, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, the Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport, and the Ministry of Defence.

Photo credits: Tadej Kreft, GZS

Event