Microsoft has unveiled a substantial $1.3 billion investment in Mexico over the next three years, focusing on cloud computing and AI infrastructure. The announcement was made by CEO Satya Nadella during the Microsoft AI Tour 2024 in Mexico City.
“We’re doubling down on bringing more capacity to Mexico,” Nadella stated at the event, emphasizing Microsoft’s commitment to fostering digital growth and technological advancement in the region.
The investment targets several key areas, including improving connectivity and promoting AI adoption among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Microsoft aims to reach five million Mexicans and support 30,000 SMBs within the three-year period. This initiative is part of the broader Artificial Intelligence National Skills program, which seeks to democratize access to AI education and training.
A significant portion of the investment will support the AI National Skills Initiative, aiming to train five million people in AI-related skills. Microsoft is partnering with government bodies, industry leaders, academic institutions, and civil society to provide comprehensive training programs tailored to the evolving labor market needs. The company is also developing a training platform designed for job seekers and employees, with a particular focus on generative AI applications in the workplace.
In addition to educational efforts, Microsoft is expanding its AI infrastructure to bolster innovation within Mexico’s AI ecosystem. The company’s AI Access Principles guide these efforts, ensuring that investments foster healthy competition and broad access to AI technologies. Notable collaborations include partnerships with Grupo Bimbo, Tec de Monterrey, and Cemex, which have successfully integrated Microsoft’s AI solutions to enhance productivity and operational efficiency.
Tecnológico de Monterrey, for instance, has developed Tecgpt, a platform utilizing Microsoft’s generative AI to improve the educational process. Similarly, Cemex has implemented AI-powered tools like Technical Xpert, transforming various business operations from sales to supply chain management.
Microsoft’s commitment extends beyond business and education sectors. Through its AI for Good program, the company is addressing critical societal challenges in Mexico. Projects include AI models for diagnosing retinopathy of prematurity (RoP) on smartphones, expanding internet connectivity in underserved regions in collaboration with Viasat, and initiatives aimed at sustainability and ecosystem restoration.
Sustainability remains a core focus for Microsoft, which has set ambitious targets to become carbon negative, water positive, and zero waste by 2030. The company is investing in renewable energy projects and ecosystem restoration efforts in Mexico, such as a biochar project in Guanajuato and a forest restoration project in Campeche, aimed at removing significant amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere.
Finally, Microsoft is launching The Bridge Accelerator program, which will integrate 30,000 SMBs into North American industry value chains through the implementation of the PyMAIs AI platform. This program is designed to update business practices, increase market competitiveness, and prepare companies for participation in cross-border supply networks.