Nebius breaks ground on gigawatt-scale AI factory in Independence

Nebius (Nasdaq: NBIS), the AI cloud company, broke ground today on its flagship AI factory campus in Independence, the company's first gigawatt-scale digital infrastructure project in the United States.

"Missouri continues to lead in innovation, infrastructure, and investment, and this facility in Independence is another example of that momentum in action," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This investment from Nebius strengthens Missouri's position as a national leader in digital infrastructure, while creating quality jobs, supporting local schools and businesses, and generating long-term opportunity. We are proud to support investments that keep Missouri competitive and moving forward."

Nebius already operates in the Kansas City area and sees the Independence AI factory as a critical next step in its long-term growth in the United States. Construction of the first phase of the AI factory is now underway. In both the construction and operation phases, Nebius has put in place intentional design measures to minimize impact at a local level, including by minimizing water use, containing noise and light, and protecting ratepayers.

"Projects like this are built for the long term, and we are committed to developing this facility in a way that directly benefits Independence," said John Boynton, Nebius Board Chariman. "We want to create lasting opportunities, act as a good partner with the community, and set a standard for developing AI and digital infrastructure responsibly."

Nebius is committed to transparent operations and sustained community engagement. As part of this, the company has established a community benefits plan focused on education and local investment, and has already begun to put this into practice, including a recent donation to eliminate school meal debt at Independence and Ft. Osage School Districts and an initial agreement with Metropolitan Community College focused on AI literacy and workforce development.

"Nebius' decision to expand in Independence is another strong signal that Missouri is competing and winning in the technology and innovation economy," said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. "This billion-dollar-investment and creation of new jobs will bring new opportunities to the region while strengthening the state's growing reputation as a destination for high-tech industry and forward-looking investment."

What others are saying

"The Kansas City region continues to stand out as a top destination for global technology investment," said Tim Cowden, President and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council. "Nebius' decision to choose Independence underscores the strength of our infrastructure, our talent pipeline and a highly collaborative, business-focused environment that helps companies scale and succeed."

"This project is a powerful catalyst for sustained economic growth in Independence," said Valerie Byrnes, President of the Independence Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Partnership. "This is a pivotal project that elevates a city's trajectory-attracting new industries, driving infrastructure investment, and creating momentum that will shape our economy for decades to come."

"This project highlights the extraordinary pace of growth in the AI industry - and why Missouri is the right place for that growth," said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. "With our central location, robust infrastructure, and ability to deliver power at scale, Missouri offers a compelling environment for next-generation technology investment, and Nebius' decision reinforces our strength as a global competitor."

About Nebius

Nebius, the AI cloud company, is building the full-stack platform for developers and companies to take charge of their AI future - from data and model training to production deployment. Founded on deep in-house technological expertise and operating at scale with a rapidly expanding global footprint, Nebius serves startups and enterprises building AI products, agents, and services worldwide. Nebius is listed on Nasdaq (NASDAQ: NBIS) and headquartered in Amsterdam.

To learn more about Nebius, visit nebius.com.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri's businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED's current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED's website.