Super Intelligence definition proposal due (60 days) · Nov 28, 2026 · See what changes
A controlled environment established by a regulator that allows organizations to test innovative products or AI systems under real conditions with regulator supervision. Under the EU AI Act as amended by the Digital Omnibus, each member state must ensure at least one national AI regulatory sandbox is operational by August 2, 2027. Sandboxes are particularly useful for startups and SMEs developing AI systems that might otherwise face regulatory barriers before they have the resources to achieve full compliance. Participation does not guarantee a compliance pass.
Why this matters for your team
If you're an EU startup developing a potentially high-risk AI system, a national regulatory sandbox lets you test under real conditions with regulatory guidance before full compliance is required. Participation is also a strong signal to investors and customers that your compliance approach is proactive.
A health tech startup developing an AI diagnostic tool applies to participate in the Netherlands' AI regulatory sandbox, allowing them to test the system with real patient data under regulatory guidance before full compliance is required.