France Secures €37 Billion With Major Focus on AI Investments
France made a powerful statement on the global tech stage this week, securing €37 billion in investments during the annual Choose France summit—an event increasingly becoming a magnet for AI and data infrastructure deals.
AI-Focused Deals Take Center Stage
Held at the historic Palace of Versailles, the 2025 edition of Choose France attracted global CEOs and investors with a clear message: France is serious about artificial intelligence. Finance Minister Eric Lombard revealed that €20 billion came from brand-new deals, with another €17 billion tied to previously pledged AI and data center projects. This follows recent investor meetings on AI that set the stage for several of the largest announcements.
Much of this year’s funding is targeted at expanding France’s capacity in data centers, generative AI systems, and AI training hubs—crucial elements for becoming a European leader in AI innovation. This investment wave reaffirms the country’s ambition to be not just a participant, but a frontrunner in the AI race.
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AI Infrastructure and Strategic Partnerships
Several high-profile initiatives were linked to artificial intelligence. ManpowerGroup announced its new AI HR Hub in Paris, designed to develop human-centered, GenAI-powered tools for employment and recruitment. The hub will serve as a regional innovation center, creating AI-driven HR solutions and collaborating with startups and research institutes.
Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron’s push for investment in AI-enabled data infrastructure is beginning to pay off. France is also supporting local foundational model development under the IndiaAI-like national AI strategy, building independent capabilities in language modeling and supercomputing through initiatives like SuperPOD.
France’s AI Ambitions Go Global
The French government’s efforts to attract AI-centric investments reflect broader economic goals. With global competition intensifying and economic growth targets looming, AI is now central to France’s innovation strategy. The summit marked a clear shift: France is no longer just courting tech investment—it’s shaping the future of artificial intelligence in Europe.
As the AI race accelerates, France is positioning itself not just as a destination for capital, but as a global AI innovation hub.
