Microsoft has unveiled plans to invest $4 billion in France to bolster the country's cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructures. This investment follows similar initiatives announced in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Japan, demonstrating Microsoft's global commitment to technological advancement.
Microsoft's investment in France includes the expansion of data center sites in Paris and Marseille, as well as the construction of a new data center in Mulhouse Alsace Agglomération. These infrastructure expansions aim to meet the growing demand for AI compute in France, with plans to bring 25,000 GPUs to the country by 2025.
The investment in the Grand Est region near the German and Swiss borders is seen as a significant step in positioning Alsace as a hub for AI innovation in France and Europe. Franck Leroy, President of Conseil régional du Grand-Est, highlights the project's potential to enhance regional competitiveness and strengthen data security.
Microsoft's investment also includes initiatives to support AI skilling for one million French citizens by 2027. This effort involves expanding existing projects like A Vous l’IA and partnering with organizations like Kokoroe and Simplon to develop AI-focused training modules and workshops, particularly targeting non-technical individuals and women seeking digital tech jobs.
Microsoft's commitment extends to supporting local startups, with plans to engage over 2,500 French startups by 2027. The GenAI Studio program will provide startups with access to expertise, cloud credits, and technical workshops, aiming to foster innovation and growth in the French startup ecosystem.
Brad Smith, President of Microsoft, emphasizes the company's dedication to fostering digital innovation and economic growth in France through state-of-the-art infrastructure, skills development, and support for startups. Corine de Bilbao, Corporate Vice President of Microsoft France, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the investment's focus on sustainable and inclusive growth.
Microsoft's substantial investment in France's cloud and AI sectors underscores the country's importance as a strategic market for technology development and innovation. The initiatives announced aim to not only enhance technological infrastructure but also empower individuals and startups to leverage AI for positive societal and economic impact.
