Microsoft plans to upgrade its data centers in Zurich and Geneva with advanced GPUs to meet growing AI demand

Microsoft has announced its plans to foster the growth of digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence technology and startup growth in Switzerland with a $400M investment deal. Microsoft has announced that it will be pouring $400M into enhancing Switzerland’s digital infrastructure. The company is especially focused on expanding the country’s cloud and AI capabilities, empowering startups, developing digital skills, and reinforcing responsible AI governance. The announcement came on June 2, 2025, by Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President Brad Smith alongside its Federal Councillor Guy Parmelin and Microsoft Switzerland’s CEO Catrin Hinkel. Microsoft commits $400M to Switzerland According to Smith, the million-dollar investment emphasizes Microsoft’s continued dedication to supporting Switzerland’s innovation-driven economy and regulatory standards. “For more than three decades, we have stood by our Swiss customers’ side,” he said. “This latest investment helps further strengthen Switzerland’s long-term economic resilience and competitiveness.” Microsoft intends to upgrade its four data centers located near Zurich and Geneva with advanced graphics processing units (GPUs). This investment is in response to a surge in demand for AI-powered services in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government. Over 50,000 existing customers will benefit from this upgrade, and Microsoft’s cloud services will continue to ensure that data remains within Swiss borders. UBS, Switzerland’s leading financial institution, is one of the major organizations that make use of Microsoft’s cloud services due to its scalability, compliance, and innovation as driving factors. According to Microsoft’s 2025 Q1 data, AI adoption in Switzerland has been accelerating rapidly. The country currently ranks second globally in the GitHub AI contributor share, and Microsoft usage metrics show a significant increase in customer engagement with AI tools. Investing in innovation Microsoft will also reinforce its support for startups, SMEs, and national digital skilling efforts. The company has pledged to help skill one million people in Switzerland by 2027. To foster innovation, Microsoft will deepen its partnership with Switzerland Innovation Parks. This collaboration will accelerate the transition from research to commercial application in industries ranging from manufacturing to public services. The goal is to equip SMEs with tools to compete in the current AI era. Since 2019, Microsoft has supported over 1,500 local startups through its Microsoft for Startups program and has created more than 11,000 jobs in the process. The upcoming 2025 cohort of the Swiss AI Tech Accelerator will offer selected startups expert mentorship, technical training, and community networking opportunities. Microsoft is also launching a series of targeted skilling initiatives in collaboration with partners such as FH Schweiz, Innovate Switzerland, and chambers of commerce. Digital literacy platforms like AI-Fitness.ch and LerneKI.ch will help broaden AI access to the general population, while Microsoft’s partnerships with organizations like the CyberPeace Institute and PoliSync aim to close digital divides both locally and globally. The 2025 Work Trend Index stresses the importance of this kind of initiative. 80% of Swiss business leaders currently identify 2025 as a year for redefining business strategies around AI. The company aims to become carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste by 2030. In Switzerland, Microsoft already sources 100% of its electricity from renewable energy and continues to source clean energy across Europe. In 2024, it signed a biogenic carbon removal deal with Swiss startup Neustark to support local sustainability solutions. “Every investment represents trust in the future. This initiative is putting trust into Switzerland, in our people, and in our ability to push the boundaries of AI.” The Federal Councillor, Guy Parmelin, said. Cryptopolitan Academy: Want to grow your money in 2025? Learn how to do it with DeFi in our upcoming webclass. Save Your Spot

Source: Cryptopolitan