Microsoft and American investment firm BlackRock have launched the Global AI Infrastructure Investment Partnership (GAIIP), aiming to raise $30 billion for AI infrastructure development. This initiative will focus on creating new and expanded data centers and exploring energy sources to power these facilities. Primarily, the investments will aim to “enhance American competitiveness.”
Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President Brad Smith emphasized the need for extensive capital to develop AI infrastructure and their associated energy needs. “The capital spending needed for AI infrastructure and the new energy to power it goes beyond what any single company or government can finance. This financial partnership will not only help advance technology but enhance national competitiveness, security, and economic prosperity,” he stated.
Once the initial $30 billion is secured, up to $100 billion in total investment potential could be accessed through debt financing. This “mobilized” investment will enable further advancements in AI infrastructure and technology. Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, commented, “Mobilizing private capital to build AI infrastructure like data centers and power will unlock a multi-trillion-dollar long-term investment opportunity. Data centers are the bedrock of the digital economy, and these investments will help power economic growth, create jobs, and drive AI technology innovation.”
Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, highlighted the company’s commitment to ensuring AI fosters economic growth across all sectors. He added, “This partnership will help deliver the vision of building the infrastructure of the future in a sustainable way.”
In addition to Microsoft and BlackRock, the fund includes participation from Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and MGX, an investor in artificial intelligence and advanced technology.
