Finland’s Big AI Plan with Nokia
Finland wants to build a big AI factory. The Finnish government, led by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, supports a plan from Nokia and its partners to build one of Europe’s first “AI gigafactories” in Finland . This idea is part of the EU’s InvestAI program, which aims to invest €200 billion in advanced AI and supercomputers.
🏗️ What is an AI Gigafactory?
An AI gigafactory is a large tech center. It has many powerful computers and data space. These centers help develop, train, and use advanced AI programs. They are like factories for AI brains
Why Does Finland Want It?
-
Strong tech skills. Finland is good at computer science, quantum tech, startups, and research.
-
Clean energy & land. Finland has green power and has space for big computer centers
-
LUMI supercomputer. Finland already has LUMI, one of Europe’s fastest supercomputers, in Kajaani. The new factory can work with LUMI
Who Will Pay?
This is a public–private partnership. The EU, Finland, and private businesses will all give money. Private companies will pay about 65% of building costs and all running costs . The EU will also invest through InvestAI.
A Big Response Across Europe
Over 76 bids have come in from 16 EU countries, covering 60 proposed sites . This shows Europe is excited to build AI power here.
The EU aims to build up to five such gigafactories. The official call for proposals will come by the end of 2025
What Comes Next in Finland?
-
Firm bids are coming. Nokia and others already gave an “expression of interest.” Finland’s government supports it
-
Full applications will be sent to the EU later this year.
-
Negotiations will start soon between the EU and bidders .
Why This Matters
-
Boost for Finland. Creates new jobs, better tech, and stronger Finnish companies
-
Europe’s tech power. Helps Europe stay strong in global AI competition with the U.S. and China
-
Green and smart. These centers use clean energy and are super powerful
Summary
Finland, with Nokia’s lead, is pushing to host one of Europe’s first AI gigafactories. This plan brings together private funding, EU support, and Finland’s green energy and supercomputer know-how. It is a big step toward stronger, smarter Europe.
