Microsoft Announces $3.2bn Investment to Double Datacenter Footprint and Train Over One Million People in AI in the UK, May 2024
On May 1, 2024, Microsoft announced a significant investment in AI infrastructure and skilling in the UK, supported by a new security partnership. The company is committing to more than double its datacenter footprint in the UK, train over one million people for the AI economy, and support AI safety and research efforts through partnerships with the government and leading universities. Over the next three years, Microsoft will invest £2.5 billion ($3.2 billion) to expand its AI datacenter infrastructure, bringing more than 20,000 of the most advanced GPUs to the UK by 2026. This investment, the largest in Microsoft's 40-year history in the UK, will expand its datacenter footprint in London and Wales, with potential expansion into northern England. As part of its skilling commitment, Microsoft will also invest millions in training one million people in AI, including the first Professional Certificate on Generative AI. In addition, Microsoft will invest in strong AI safety and security measures, operating its AI services and infrastructure in accordance with industry-leading responsible AI practices.