Inside Fraunhofer: 3 Questions for… Dr Sonja Holl-Supra, Managing Director of the Fraunhofer Big Data and Artificial Intelligence Alliance
For this year’s AI & Data Summit and Quantum Summit, we asked our partners to answer three key questions about the future of Artificial Intelligence. Dr Sonja Holl-Supra, Managing Director of the Fraunhofer Big Data and Artificial Intelligence Alliance, shares insights into their strategy, challenges, and commitment to trustworthy AI.
1. How do Artificial Intelligence influence your company’s strategy for driving digital transformation and innovation?
At Fraunhofer, AI is a key enabler of innovation. As a recognized solution provider in the field of applied AI, we see AI driving data-based decision-making, automating workflows, and boosting efficiency across industries. AI is not just a tool — it's a strategic driver for transformation.
2. What are the main challenges you encounter when integrating AI technologies in your solutions, and how do you overcome them?
Many companies face uncertainty when starting with AI — from identifying valuable use cases to navigating data privacy, data access, or regulatory concerns such as the EU AI Act. The biggest challenge often lies in embedding AI into core processes while ensuring measurable impact. This is where our alliance of expert Fraunhofer institutes steps in: we offer tailored solutions to help organizations move from complexity to clarity.
3. How do you ensure the security and trustworthiness of your AI-based solutions, particularly regarding data protection?
Trust is the foundation of every AI solution. The Fraunhofer Alliance is developing assessment frameworks such as the AI Assessment Catalog to support responsible innovation. We’re creating test standards, advancing AI explainability, and running targeted training programs to help companies comply with EU regulation. Security and trustworthiness are not afterthoughts — they are baked into everything we do.
Dr Sonja Holl-Supra
