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US President Donald Trump announced a $500 billion artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure initiative, described as the largest of its kind. The venture, called “Stargate,” brings together tech giants OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank to construct a vast network of data centres across the United States.
Aim Of Stargate
The project aims to establish the critical infrastructure required to fuel AI innovation while generating over 100,000 jobs, a goal Trump claims will be realised “almost immediately.” The president unveiled the initiative at the White House, accompanied by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
$500B in commitments to building AI in America. Stargate is certainly one of the most ambitious technology programs we’ve seen in the 21st century. To coordinate this all on day 1 is a huge signal for America leading in AI.
pic.twitter.com/dhJ6nwzFQn— Aaron Levie (@levie) January 21, 2025
Highlighting the importance of bolstering the nation’s technological edge, Trump said, “China is a competitor and others are competitors. We want it to be in this country.” He also pledged to fast-track the project’s energy requirements by leveraging emergency declarations to streamline power production at the facilities.
Shift In AI Policy
The announcement comes amid a shift in US AI policy, with Trump recently overturning an executive order on AI safety standards introduced by his predecessor, Joe Biden. This move signals a strategic pivot towards accelerating AI development, with less regulatory oversight.
While ambitious in scale, the Stargate initiative aligns with market trends. Investment firm Blackstone had previously forecasted $1 trillion in US data centre investments over the next five years. Trump characterised the project as a testament to America’s potential under his leadership.
“This monumental undertaking is a resounding declaration of confidence in America’s potential under a new president,” he said. The initiative follows an earlier $20 billion AI infrastructure investment announced by UAE-based DAMAC Properties. Initial Stargate data centre locations will be set up in Texas, with additional sites under evaluation nationwide.
This major step reflects the administration’s determination to position the US as a global AI leader while addressing growing competition from international players.