The Stargate Project, a collaborative initiative between OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle aimed at bolstering U.S. AI capabilities, has shifted focus towards establishing a smaller data center in Ohio by year-end, according to the Wall Street Journal. Initially touted as a $500 billion endeavor intended to create over 100,000 jobs, the project is now contending with internal disagreements, particularly regarding site selection. In a joint statement, OpenAI and SoftBank emphasized their commitment to site evaluations and progressing in various states. At launch, the project secured $100 billion for immediate use, with additional investments planned over four years. Oracle Chairman Larry Ellison noted construction of the project’s first data center in Texas has commenced. The initiative aligns with former President Donald Trump’s strategic focus on AI competitiveness against China, as he initiated a national energy emergency to streamline regulatory processes for energy projects, including oil, gas, and nuclear power plants.
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