In a bold step toward becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence, Armenia has announced the construction of a $500 million AI factory in partnership with U.S. tech giant NVIDIA, investment group Firebird, and Team Group. The facility, set to be the largest AI initiative in the region, is scheduled to begin operations by 2026.
Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan described the initiative as a “historic leap” for Armenia, positioning the country as a key innovator in the global AI revolution.
“This is not just progress — it’s a transformative leap. Armenia is stepping into the global AI revolution as a creator, builder, and leader,” Hayrapetyan said.
A Regional AI Powerhouse
The AI facility will be equipped with thousands of NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs and backed by over 100 megawatts of infrastructure power, making it one of the most advanced in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. More than just a data center, the project will serve as a comprehensive AI research, education, and innovation hub, empowering Armenian engineers, scientists, and students to drive digital transformation at home.
NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang stated:
“AI factories are the infrastructure of the 21st century. Our collaboration with Armenia will help build critical capabilities and unlock new economic and technological opportunities across the region.”
Creating Jobs and Driving Innovation
The project is expected to create thousands of high-skill jobs, attract foreign investment, and reverse the brain drain trend by providing local opportunities for Armenia’s brightest minds. The Armenian government sees this as a strategic investment in long-term prosperity.
Firebird co-founder and CEO Razmig Hovaghimian called it a “launchpad for innovation”:
“From Armenia to the world, we’re building a platform for robotics, science, and AI development in partnership with top global universities.”
Team Group, which runs Armenia’s national telecom operator "Team Telecom Armenia" and is a stakeholder in Georgia’s SkyTel, will provide the digital infrastructure and expertise needed to bring the project to life.
“This is a testament to Armenia’s potential to become a regional leader in information technology and AI,” said Team Group co-founder Alexander Yesayan.
Global Partnerships, Local Impact
The Aviean Foundation, led by Noubar Afeyan, CEO of Flagship Pioneering, will also join as a founding investor and strategic advisor to Firebird. Afeyan emphasized the need for long-term global collaboration in making Armenia a visible player in the AI ecosystem.
U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Kristina Kvien welcomed the initiative:
“We are excited about the potential for U.S. AI and tech exports to accelerate Armenia’s innovation economy. Companies like NVIDIA are ideal partners for Armenia’s transformation.”
This landmark project reflects a strong synergy between government policy, private tech leadership, and global cooperation — all aimed at establishing Armenia as a vital AI and digital hub in the region.
Follow the latest news on Google News
