Microsoft invests USD 400 million to boost Switzerland’s AI future

Microsoft deepens its commitment to Switzerland with a strategic investment spanning infrastructure, education, and responsible AI, also placing Geneva at the center of global collaboration.

On 2 June 2025, Microsoft announced a USD 400 million investment to strengthen Switzerland’s position in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud infrastructure, and digital resilience. While the initiative spans the country, Geneva will play a pivotal role as the anchor for Microsoft’s international partnerships in responsible AI governance.

As part of this investment, Microsoft will expand its collaboration with International Geneva, home to numerous United Nations agencies, NGOs, and international organizations. The goal: promote ethical and inclusive AI development that supports global priorities such as health, human rights, migration, and climate resilience.

In Geneva, Microsoft is working with several key international partners to harness AI in support of global challenges. Collaborations include the UNHCR and IOM to enhance refugee support and migration systems, as well as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to develop a strategic roadmap for integrating AI into human rights protection. The company also partners with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to deploy AI-powered platforms for humanitarian aid. With the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Microsoft supports digital inclusion and helps coordinate global AI governance through initiatives such as the AI for Good Summit. In addition, its work with the CyberPeace Institute focuses on strengthening cybersecurity capabilities for NGOs and humanitarian organizations.

Academic partnerships, such as with Geneva’s Graduate Institute, also aim to strengthen global dialogue by bringing voices from the Global South into AI policy discussions.

Supporting innovation, education, and infrastructure nationwide

Beyond Geneva, Microsoft’s investment includes the expansion of its data centers near Zurich, supporting over 50,000 Swiss customers and enabling high-performance AI tools for organizations in regulated sectors. All data will remain within Switzerland to meet national compliance requirements.

The company is also investing in Switzerland’s start-up ecosystem, extending its collaboration with the Switzerland Innovation Parks and continuing its Swiss AI Tech Accelerator. Since 2019, Microsoft has supported over 1,500 Swiss start-ups, contributing to the creation of more than 11,000 jobs.

In the area of skills development, Microsoft plans to train one million people in Switzerland in AI-related competencies by 2027. This includes programs for students, apprentices, SMEs, non-profits, and public sector employees, with the aim of ensuring broad access to digital opportunities.

Microsoft’s announcement reaffirms its 36-year commitment to Switzerland and aligns with the country’s emphasis on innovation, data protection, and ethical standards. With Geneva as a key node in international AI dialogue and cloud infrastructure expanding nationwide, the investment is set to enhance both Switzerland’s competitiveness and its role in shaping the future of responsible technology.