Microsoft Commits $4B to Expand AI and Cloud Infrastructure in France

Microsoft is ramping up its global investment initiatives with a substantial $4 billion commitment aimed at bolstering cloud and AI infrastructures in France. Following recent announcements of similar investments in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Japan, the tech giant has shifted its focus to Europe's second-largest economy, highlighting its dedication to advancing technological capabilities in the region.

To enhance its AI services in France, Microsoft revealed plans to expand existing data center sites in Paris and Marseille, while also constructing a new data center in Mulhouse, located in the Grand Est region near the German and Swiss borders, approximately five hours from Paris. This infrastructure expansion is designed to meet the increasing demand for AI computing power in France, with plans to deploy 25,000 GPUs by the end of 2025.

Franck Leroy, president of the Conseil régional du Grand-Est, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “With this major project, the Grand Est region is making Alsace a benchmark region for AI in France and Europe. This unique project, benefiting from a technological first, will strengthen the competitiveness of our regions and businesses while ensuring the security of their data. It is also a major project of national and European interest.”

The announcement came during the Choose France summit, an annual event organized by the French government to attract businesses to invest in the country.

In addition to its infrastructure investments, Microsoft aims to support AI skills development for one million French citizens by 2027. This initiative includes the expansion of the "A Vous l’IA" program, which equips job seekers with essential technology and AI skills, including the use of generative AI tools to enhance their job searches. The company is collaborating with the French education technology firm Kokoroe to create tailored AI training modules for non-technical individuals. Additionally, Microsoft is partnering with Simplon to launch "GenIAles," a series of workshops designed to help women access careers in digital technology.

Microsoft’s investment in France also extends to fostering local innovation among startups. The company aims to engage with more than 2,500 French startups by 2027, offering them access to the GenAI Studio program, which provides expertise, cloud credits, and support. This program will evolve into a four-month training initiative conducted twice a year, featuring technical workshops and mentorship from Microsoft AI experts. Startups will be inspired to emulate the success of Mistral AI, France’s most notable AI startup, following Microsoft’s investment in the firm earlier this year.

Brad Smith, Microsoft’s president, stated, “This major investment demonstrates a steadfast commitment to supporting digital innovation and economic growth in France. We are building state-of-the-art cloud and AI infrastructure, training people with AI skills, and supporting French startups as they leverage our technology confidently to foster growth in a fair and responsible manner.”

Corine de Bilbao, Microsoft France’s corporate vice president, expressed pride in the historical investment, asserting, “Through cutting-edge cloud and AI infrastructure, a comprehensive training plan for the French workforce, and renewed support for startups in the region, we are furthering our commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.”