Microsoft has unveiled a €4 billion investment to enhance cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure across France, marking the largest commitment in its 41-year history in the country. This strategic move, announced during the Choose France Summit, includes the construction of a new data center in the Grand Est region and expansions in Paris and Marseille. The initiative aims to accelerate AI and cloud technology adoption, boost France’s competitiveness, and generate long-term economic and employment benefits.
Amazon Boosts French Technology with €1.2 Billion Investment
Simultaneously, Amazon has disclosed its plan to invest €1.2 billion to expand its infrastructure and technology services in France. This investment will improve Amazon Web Services’ capabilities and extend its parcel delivery network, reinforcing France’s position in the global digital economy.
Expanding Microsoft’s Global Footprint
The investments in France are part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to expand its AI and cloud computing services across Europe and Southeast Asia. This includes a multi-year partnership with France-based Mistral AI and significant financial commitments in Germany, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. These efforts are designed to support local startups, engage in community projects, and construct new data centers, such as Thailand’s first.
Microsoft’s Comprehensive Approach to AI and Sustainability
The new data center campus near Mulhouse will operate under Microsoft’s AI Access Principles, promoting innovation and fair competition in the AI sector. Microsoft has also committed to environmentally sustainable practices, aiming for 100% renewable energy usage by 2025 and significant reductions in water use and waste by 2030.
Training and Support for French Talent
Microsoft plans to train nearly one million French citizens in AI by 2027, collaborating with educational institutions like SKEMA Business School and EFREI, and companies such as Kokoroe. The company’s Enterprise Skills Initiative program will offer generative AI training across various organizational profiles, and a new partnership with Simplon will focus on training developers in GenAI technologies.
To support the growth of over 2,500 French startups, Microsoft will launch the GenAI Studio program. This initiative, hosted at Station F, will run a tailored 4-month acceleration program twice a year for three years, providing startups with AI expertise, cloud resources, and comprehensive support to foster the development of high-growth AI businesses in France.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 8:27 pm CET
