At the recent Choose France summit, Microsoft announced a groundbreaking investment focused on accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) in France. This investment, the largest in Microsoft’s 41-year history in the country, aims to advance AI adoption and infrastructure, enhance France’s competitive edge in digital technology, and generate substantial economic and employment benefits. This initiative supports France’s National Strategy for AI and aligns with the French Commission for Artificial Intelligence’s recommendations, aiming to position France as a global leader in AI development and application.
Commitment to AI Innovation
Brad Smith, Vice Chair & President of Microsoft, underscored the company’s commitment to fostering AI innovation in France. “We are building state-of-the-art AI infrastructure, training people with AI skills, and supporting French startups to grow in a fair and responsible way,” said Smith. The investment reflects Microsoft’s adherence to its AI Access Principles, designed to promote innovation and healthy competition within the rapidly growing AI economy.
Expansion of AI Infrastructure
Microsoft plans to invest €4 billion to expand its AI infrastructure in France, deploying up to 25,000 advanced GPUs by the end of 2025. The company will enhance its data center footprint in Paris and Marseille and plan a new data center campus in the Grand Est Region. This project aims to meet the increasing demand for scalable and sustainable AI compute power from both private and public sectors.
Franck Leroy, President of the Conseil régional du Grand-Est, highlighted the significance of this initiative: “This unique project will strengthen the competitiveness of our regions and businesses while guaranteeing data security.” Fabian Jordan, President of Mulhouse Alsace Agglomération, echoed this sentiment, noting the project’s role in reaffirming the region’s industrial and digital identity.
Sustainable AI Practices
Microsoft’s AI investment strategy includes a robust commitment to sustainability. The company has executed its first renewable energy Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in France and plans to have 100 MW of new renewable energy projects online by the end of 2024. Microsoft aims for 100% renewable energy coverage for its operations by 2025, to become water positive by 2030, and achieve zero waste by 2030.
AI Skilling Initiatives
In addition to infrastructure investments, Microsoft is launching initiatives to train 1 million French citizens in AI by 2027. Collaborating with government institutions, educational partners, and non-profits, Microsoft will offer training programs to enhance AI fluency, develop technical skills, and promote responsible AI use. The “A Vous l’IA” initiative, in partnership with France Travail, will train job seekers in AI technologies, while higher education partnerships will equip students with essential AI skills.
Supporting AI Startups
Microsoft is also committed to accelerating the French AI startup ecosystem, aiming to engage over 2,500 startups by 2027 through the Microsoft GenAI Studio program. This initiative, hosted at STATION F, includes technical workshops, access to AI experts, and cloud credits, supporting startups in integrating AI technologies. Roxanne Varza, Director of STATION F, expressed excitement about this partnership, emphasizing its potential to enhance AI capabilities for startups.
A Future of Inclusive AI Growth
These strategic investments are designed to support the long-term growth and competitiveness of the French economy, adhering to Microsoft’s AI Access Principles and European and French sovereignty principles. By investing in AI infrastructure, skilling, and startups, Microsoft demonstrates its enduring commitment to France, where it has been a significant presence since 1983, employing over 2,100 people. This historic investment is set to foster a more inclusive, sustainable, and trusted digital future for France, solidifying its position as a leader in AI innovation.
