Poland’s digital infrastructure is set to grow, with billions of zloty to be invested in new cloud and AI projects.
Microsoft is planning to invest PLN 2.8 billion ($700 million) by June 2026, to strengthen the country’s position as an emerging tech hub.
A portion of the funding will comprise of forming a partnership with Poland’s Ministry of National Defence to reinforce the country’s cybersecurity systems. Cyber threats remain a pressing concern for the country, which ranks third in Europe and ninth globally in exposure to attacks from state-sponsored hackers, according to data from Microsoft’s Digital Defense report.
There’s also a proposal for a second phase of funding after this round of investment, though the specifics haven’t yet been shared.
Cloud computing and AI are increasingly being viewed as ‘General Purpose Technologies’ – innovations like electricity and computing that drive widespread changes across entire economies. Economists see AI heading in that direction, transforming industries and reshaping how businesses operate, but in time becoming as necessary as basic utilities.
Europe is laying the groundwork for an AI transition. Major technology firms are funnelling billions into digital infrastructure to ensure that businesses across the continent can access advanced cloud and AI tools.
One area of focus has been making sure the technology is built with Europe’s needs in mind. Last year, Microsoft introduced a set of AI Access Principles in Barcelona, and was at pains to outline how its AI infrastructure will remain open and available to businesses across the region.
Source: Cloud Computing