During his keynote address at the Microsoft AI Tour 2024 in Mexico City, Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella passionately reaffirmed Microsoft Corporation’s dedication to the nation. He unveiled a bold $1.3 billion investment set to roll out over the next three years, aimed at enhancing AI infrastructure and fostering digital innovation. Central to this initiative is the Artificial Intelligence National Capabilities Initiative, designed to empower 5 million people with access to cutting-edge AI tools. This substantial investment will also target improving connectivity and enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to harness AI, accelerating their digital transformation and enhancing business operations throughout the country.
As Microsoft marks its 38th anniversary in Mexico, it embraces a pivotal moment, harnessing the power of technology and artificial intelligence. The company is expanding its AI infrastructure, reaffirming its long-standing dedication to the nation and acknowledging the critical role AI plays in driving social and economic advancement. This bold initiative will require substantial investment to enhance local computing capabilities and spark innovation.
“We are stepping into a new era of AI, one that holds the promise of inclusive economic growth and opportunity for every role, industry, and country, including Mexico,” said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft.
“Our commitment to developing AI infrastructure and skills in Mexico will empower individuals and organizations to leverage the benefits of this technological revolution fully,” he added.
Expanding AI Infrastructure and Fostering Innovation in Mexico’s AI Landscape
Microsoft reaffirms its dedication to Mexico’s economic and social progress, spotlighting AI as a transformative technology with the potential to tackle pressing societal challenges, enhance productivity, strengthen cybersecurity, and boost business competitiveness while broadening social and economic opportunities across the nation.
To guide this initiative, the Microsoft AI Access Principles will govern the deployment of this infrastructure. These principles, crafted to foster innovation and healthy competition in the rapidly evolving AI landscape, highlight Microsoft’s expanding role and responsibility as a leader in the field. The company is committed to investing in partnerships and developing programs that ensure widespread access to AI technology, empowering organizations and individuals to leverage AI for the greater good.
Pioneering AI Adoption in Mexico
Mexico is witnessing remarkable examples of AI integration, with companies like Grupo Bimbo and Cemex, alongside educational institutions such as Tecnológico de Monterrey, leading the way. Tecnológico de Monterrey has introduced Tecgpt, a groundbreaking platform powered by Microsoft’s generative AI, designed to enhance the learning experience and boost productivity among students, faculty, and staff. This innovative tool is one of the first of its kind in Latin America.
Meanwhile, Cemex has adopted Microsoft AI solutions, significantly elevating productivity and operational efficiency across various business sectors—sales, production, and supply chain—thanks to the implementation of Technical Xpert, an AI-driven copilot.
Bridging the AI Skills Gap
In a bold move to democratize access to AI, Microsoft has launched the Artificial Intelligence National Capabilities Initiative, aimed at training 5 million individuals in partnership with governments, industry leaders, academia, and civil society. This initiative will create a comprehensive training platform for job seekers and current employees, emphasizing the integration of generative AI into everyday tasks, particularly within small and medium-sized enterprises.
A recent Microsoft survey reveals that 57% of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Mexico plan to adopt AI by 2023 to enhance operational efficiency, make informed decisions, and tailor customer experiences. The Bridge Accelerator program is designed to help regional SMBs connect with North American industry value chains through an AI platform. It supports 30,000 businesses over the next three years to boost their competitiveness and market reach while preparing them for cross-border supply networks.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community Impact
Microsoft is dedicated to leveraging AI for positive change through its AI for Good program, addressing critical issues in health, connectivity, and sustainability in Mexico. The company is prioritizing sustainability by investing in renewable energy via Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), securing over 34 GW of renewable energy across 24 countries, and striving to accelerate global renewable energy markets while advocating for clean alternatives.
In its commitment to enhance clean water access and sanitation solutions, Microsoft is also focused on rehabilitating ecosystems. With aspirations to be carbon-negative by 2030, the company has partnered with The Next 150 and Toroto SAPI de CV on initiatives in Guanajuato and Campeche to eliminate significant CO2 emissions. These projects not only support local farmers and biodiversity but also align with Microsoft’s vision of creating a meaningful community impact.
Driving Digital Transformation
Through the strategic use of technology, Microsoft is at the forefront of Mexico’s digital transformation, helping the country transition into a thriving digital economy. The company is committed to investing in infrastructure, fostering innovation, and developing skills to ensure sustainable success. Emphasizing responsible innovation, Microsoft prioritizes ethics and sustainability, aiming to create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all citizens.
