Innovate AI, a global leader in artificial intelligence solutions, has announced plans to invest $2 billion in a new research and development campus in New Albany, Ohio. The project is expected to generate approximately 1,500 new high-skilled jobs and establish a major center for AI innovation in the Midwest.
The facility, which will focus on developing next-generation AI models and hardware, represents one of the largest single technology investments in the state's history. Construction is slated to begin in early 2025, with the first phase of operations planned to launch by late 2027.
Key Takeaways
- Innovate AI is investing $2 billion to build a new AI research and development campus in New Albany, Ohio.
- The project is projected to create 1,500 direct high-tech jobs over the next five years.
- The campus will focus on foundational AI model research, ethical AI development, and advanced semiconductor design.
- Ohio provided a significant incentive package, including tax credits and infrastructure grants, to secure the investment.
Details of the Ohio Investment
Innovate AI's investment outlines a multi-phase construction plan for a sprawling campus dedicated entirely to artificial intelligence. The initial $2 billion commitment covers land acquisition, infrastructure development, and the construction of two primary research buildings.
According to company officials, the facility will house several specialized teams. These include groups working on large language models (LLMs), computer vision, and the design of specialized processors optimized for AI workloads. The long-term plan includes an on-site data center powered by renewable energy sources.
Strategic Location in the 'Silicon Heartland'
The choice of New Albany places Innovate AI in close proximity to other major technology projects, including Intel's massive semiconductor fabrication plants currently under construction. This growing ecosystem, often called the 'Silicon Heartland,' provides access to a developing supply chain and a skilled talent pool.
"Ohio offers a unique combination of top-tier engineering talent from its universities, a supportive business environment, and robust infrastructure. We are not just building a facility; we are investing in a community and helping to build the future of technology in America's heartland," said Innovate AI CEO, Jane Foster, during the announcement.
The project is expected to create an additional 3,000 indirect jobs in construction, logistics, and local services during the building phase and beyond, according to an economic impact study cited by the company.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The primary impact of the Innovate AI campus will be the creation of high-wage technology jobs. The company stated that the 1,500 positions will cover a range of roles, from AI research scientists and software engineers to hardware architects and data center technicians.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: $2 Billion
- Direct Jobs Created: 1,500
- Indirect Jobs (Projected): 3,000+
- Campus Size: Approximately 900 acres
- Construction Start: Q1 2025
- Target Opening (Phase 1): Q4 2027
State and local officials have praised the project for its potential to transform the regional economy. The average salary for the new positions is expected to be over $135,000, significantly higher than the state's median income. This influx of high-paying jobs is anticipated to boost local tax revenues and stimulate growth in housing and retail sectors.
State and Local Incentives
To secure the landmark investment, the State of Ohio and the City of New Albany offered a substantial package of economic incentives. While the full details have not been made public, sources confirm the package includes performance-based tax credits tied to job creation and capital investment.
Additionally, the state has committed funds for infrastructure improvements, including road upgrades and expanded utility services to support the new campus. These public investments were deemed critical for attracting a project of this magnitude.
Ohio's Growing Tech Sector
Ohio has actively courted major technology companies in recent years. The state's strategy focuses on leveraging its manufacturing history, central location, and network of research universities. Major investments from companies like Intel, Google, and Amazon have already established a significant tech presence, particularly in central Ohio.
Focus on AI Research and Development
Innovate AI has emphasized that the Ohio campus will be a hub for foundational research, not just product development. The goal is to advance the core capabilities of artificial intelligence systems, with a particular focus on safety and ethical considerations.
The company plans to establish partnerships with leading academic institutions in the region, including The Ohio State University and Carnegie Mellon University. These collaborations will aim to foster a pipeline of talent and drive joint research projects.
Key Research Areas
The campus will be organized around three core research pillars:
- Next-Generation AI Models: Developing more efficient and capable AI architectures that require less computational power.
- Ethical and Safe AI: A dedicated team will work on AI alignment, bias detection, and creating transparent systems.
- AI-Specific Hardware: Designing custom semiconductors and chips that accelerate machine learning tasks.
This focus on fundamental R&D signals Innovate AI's long-term strategy to stay ahead in the highly competitive artificial intelligence landscape. The company aims for the Ohio campus to produce breakthrough technologies that will define its product lines for the next decade.
Future Outlook and Regional Significance
The establishment of the Innovate AI research hub is a significant milestone for Ohio's economic development. It solidifies the state's reputation as a credible and growing center for the technology industry, moving beyond its traditional manufacturing base.
The project also highlights a broader trend of tech investment decentralizing away from coastal hubs like Silicon Valley. Companies are increasingly looking to the Midwest for its lower cost of living, available land, and access to a different talent pool.
As construction begins, local communities will face challenges related to housing and infrastructure capacity. However, officials express confidence that long-term planning will manage this growth effectively. The Innovate AI campus is not just a corporate facility; it is a foundational piece of a new economic identity for central Ohio.
