Microsoft invests 3.2 billion euros: Massive expansion of AI infrastructure planned in Germany

As part of its largest investment in Germany to date, Microsoft is not only strengthening its AI infrastructure, but is also focusing on sustainable practices and digital training. What opportunities does this comprehensive initiative open up for German companies and start-ups?

Berlin - Microsoft is investing 3.2 billion euros in Germany to expand its AI infrastructure and cloud capacities and to train over 1.2 million people in digital skills by the end of 2025. This is the company's largest investment in Germany to date.

Over the next two years, Microsoft plans to strengthen its cloud and AI infrastructure across Germany, more than doubling capacity through the expansion in Frankfurt am Main and new infrastructure in North Rhine-Westphalia. These expansions are intended to meet the increasing demand for AI computing power and cloud solutions and will enable new AI models and services to be trained and applied on the Microsoft Azure platform.

Competitiveness of the German economy

The investment aims to provide German companies, particularly in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, financial services, pharmaceuticals, life sciences and medical technology, with access to leading AI technology. Microsoft wants to contribute to strengthening the global competitiveness of the German economy.

Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and the Minister President of North Rhine-Westphalia, Hendrik Wüst, welcome the investment as a positive contribution to structural change and to strengthening Germany as a business location. Microsoft is also emphasizing its commitment to responsible AI and sustainability by introducing industry-leading standards and an AI Assurance Program. The company aims to use 100% renewable energy in its data centers worldwide by 2025.

Microsoft aims to train 1.2 million people

Microsoft's advanced IT infrastructure enables German companies and start-ups to develop and deploy AI models and applications. Numerous companies such as Siemens, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bayer and Commerzbank are already using AI functions for various applications.

Microsoft's investment goes beyond infrastructure, as the company aims to train more than 1.2 million people in Germany in digital skills. Partnerships with training service providers, industry partners, universities and non-profit organizations will launch programs to promote AI knowledge and technical skills.

Overall, Microsoft's initiative shows how important Germany is as a location for investors and how cooperation between companies and the government can drive digital change.