Two major launches to unite talent, innovation and values in the service of a strong Europe in artificial intelligence.
JFD (Join Forces & Dare), the accelerator of technological and human transformation for organisations, has been bringing together a unique ecosystem for 14 years to raise the tech and AI leaders of tomorrow. Today, JFD is taking a new step in its European development with the simultaneous launch of the second edition of the European AI Barometer and the 14th promotion of the Margaret Awards, the only women’s tech prize under the high patronage of the President of the French Republic.
European AI Barometer by JFD: autonomy at the heart of the European debate
Following the publication of its first instalment in February 2025, the European AI Barometer by JFD has become a benchmark for public and private stakeholders and the media in less than a year. This first instalment laid the foundations by providing an overview of AI adoption in Europe and identifying the major economic and societal challenges.
The second instalment, entitled AI and European autonomy: between ambition and reality, marks a new stage: it explores the tension between political ambition and operational reality on the ground, and questions Europe’s ability to gain autonomy, competitiveness and global influence.
We have all the talent and ideas we need to succeed in the age of artificial intelligence. What we need now is the courage to bring them together. With United by Tech, JFD is driving this collective momentum, which is growing every day with those who dare to imagine a more human and ethical AI. — Delphine Remy-Boutang, Founder & CEO of JFD
Produced in collaboration with EY Fabernovel, the European AI Barometer by JFD draws on a strategic committee of AI pioneers including: Allianz, LVMH, La Poste Group, Carrefour Group, Casino Group, L’Oréal Group, Septeo, Epitech, Veolia, Euratechnologies, La FrenchTech and many others. Together, they share a common vision in a context of unprecedented transformation: “Unity is the condition for our autonomy, the collective strength that allows us to choose our technologies, our partners and our innovation trajectory according to our values.”
Cyberattacks and climate risk are among the main threats to businesses. With the European AI Barometer by JFD, we want to show how responsible and sovereign AI can strengthen resilience and cybersecurity in Europe. — Isabelle Hébert, Member of the Allianz France Executive Committee in charge of Data, Communication, Marketing and Strategy
The Margaret Awards 2026: reveal the women shaping the future of AI in Europe
An annual showcase for innovation that has become an essential part of the ecosystem, JFD recognises high-potential women who use technology to drive progress.
Echoing its European AI Barometer, JFD is launching the call for applications for the 2026 Margaret Awards. The 14th “United by Tech” promotion will once again honour the rising generation of AI leaders.
Applications are open until 27 February 2026 on joinjfd.com.
Three categories will be awarded:
- Entrepreneur: female founders of innovative start-ups;
- Intrapreneur: female employees who lead transformation projects;
- Junior: young women aged 14 to 22 who are already imagining the future through AI.
United by Tech is more than a slogan, it’s a state of mind. It’s the idea that technology only makes sense when it connects us. To all women and young girls, I want to say that artificial intelligence needs human intelligence. Like Margaret Hamilton, leave your mark on the Moon of our time and apply for the Margaret Awards by JFD, under the patronage of the President of the Republic. — Aurore Bergé, Minister Delegate to the Prime Minister, responsible for Gender Equality and the Fight against Discrimination
The winners will benefit from a one-year support programme worth €1 million, designed with JFD’s partners to accelerate their growth and visibility.
JFD is more than an accelerator, it’s a real springboard that transforms visibility and influence into concrete opportunities. Thanks to this dynamic, we have been able to accelerate our development and strengthen our credibility in record time. — Iris Maréchal, Margaret Entrepreneure 2025, Co-founder of Theremia
To remain competitive with the major technological powers, Europe must mobilise 100% of its talent. Parity is not an ideal, but an imperative for innovation and growth. Through United by Tech, JFD brings together those who believe that a strong Europe in AI will be built by uniting talent, technology and values.
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About JFD
Founded in 2012 by Delphine Remy-Boutang, JFD (Join Forces & Dare) accelerates technological and human transformation across organisations. By bringing together a unique ecosystem of private, public and media players, JFD is helping to raise the tech and AI leaders of tomorrow, placing value creation and economic parity at the heart of its actions. Through its flagship initiatives — the Margaret Awards, the European AI Barometer, the JFD Club and its inspiring events, the JFD Nights — JFD has already reached more than 25 million people, trained 15,000 talents and accelerated 2,000 start-ups. A key player on the international tech scene, JFD works alongside major groups, institutions and high-potential start-ups to accelerate technological transformation and strengthen the competitiveness of businesses.
More information: www.joinjfd.com
