AI gigafactory Finland has gained formal backing from the Finnish government through a Nokia-led bid to build one of the European Union’s planned artificial intelligence gigafactories on Finnish soil. This development aligns with the EU’s InvestAI initiative, which aims to drive large-scale investments in AI and high-performance computing.
The InvestAI programme targets around 200 billion euros in funding for AI development across EU member states. Part of the plan includes constructing up to five AI gigafactories across Europe. Earlier this year, Nokia submitted an expression of interest leading a consortium, now supported by Finland’s government.
The proposed AI gigafactory Finland will serve as a major hub to develop, train, and deploy cutting-edge AI models. Plans suggest that private partners would contribute approximately 65 percent of the total investment and cover ongoing operational costs.
Finland sees this project as a chance to foster sustainable economic growth and advance technological innovation. The country’s strengths in data research, startup culture, and emerging fields like quantum technology provide a strong foundation for leading in AI.
Additional factors that favor Finland include its abundant clean energy resources and available land for large infrastructure projects. Finland is already home to LUMI, one of Europe’s first AI-focused supercomputing centers. Officials expect cooperation between the new gigafactory and LUMI to boost Europe’s AI capabilities.
The InvestAI initiative intends to be commercially driven, matching the strategic goals of the EU and member states. The European Commission plans to open a full call for proposals later in 2025.
Across Europe, 76 expressions of interest for hosting AI gigafactories have been submitted. The applicants’ details remain confidential at this stage.
The Finnish government is open to regional cooperation, including partnerships with Nordic and Baltic countries, as the project progresses. Discussions with the European Commission and selected applicants will begin soon.
