Brookfield Asset Management has announced a $100 billion AI initiative in collaboration with Nvidia and the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA). This massive undertaking aims to develop and deploy significant AI infrastructure globally. The partnership brings together a major global investment firm, a leading AI chip manufacturer, and a prominent sovereign wealth fund from the Middle East. Why it matters: This substantial investment signifies a major commitment from a GCC sovereign wealth fund to accelerate global AI development and infrastructure, leveraging top-tier international partnerships.
Brookfield Asset Management is partnering with Nvidia and Korean Investment Corporation (KIA) for a $100 billion initiative to build AI infrastructure. The plan involves developing data centers to support AI and other technologies. Brookfield will invest its own capital in addition to partnering to raise funds. Why it matters: This signals growing global investment in AI infrastructure, with significant implications for data center development and AI capabilities worldwide.
KIA, a global automotive company, is joining Brookfield's $10 billion AI investment initiative. The investment will focus on sectors including manufacturing, electric vehicles, and robotics. KIA aims to leverage AI to enhance its automotive technologies and manufacturing processes. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the increasing interest and investment in AI across diverse sectors in the Middle East, particularly in automotive and manufacturing.
KAUST held its 14th KAUST Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting in Riyadh on December 11, 2023, marking the first time the meeting has taken place outside of KAUST. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) formally signed on as a new member of the KAUST Industry Collaboration Program (KICP). The meeting included talks about the future of KICP and round-table sessions on advancing goals in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: This signals a new era of alliances for KAUST in launching ambitions and deepening its impact within the Kingdom and beyond.
KAUST welcomed Monsha'at, the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), and the Royal Commission of Al Ula to its Industry Collaboration Program (KICP). These new members, announced at the 12th annual KAUST Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting, bring the total KICP membership to 25. The KIAB event focused on AI's role in the digital transformation of health, society, and the economy. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's commitment to fostering industry partnerships in AI and other key sectors to advance Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
KAUST held its 10th Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting, bringing together university leadership and 26 executive-level industry representatives. The meeting highlighted KAUST's achievements over the past decade and focused on future research and economic development plans aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Over the past 10 years, KICP members have funded over 150 research projects and hired over 25 percent of KAUST graduates. Why it matters: The KIAB meeting underscores KAUST's role in fostering industry collaboration and driving innovation in Saudi Arabia, particularly in R&D and alignment with Vision 2030.
KAUST held its 9th annual KAUST Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting, focusing on collaboration with industry partners and the KAUST Industry Collaboration Program (KICP). Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr emphasized linking science and research to economic development, while VP Kevin Cullen highlighted the essential role of industry partnerships in bringing KAUST research to life. Speakers, including Dr. Khaled H. Biyari, CEO of the Saudi Telecom Company, discussed fostering disruptive innovation and bridging the gap between academia and industry to contribute to Vision 2030. Why it matters: The KIAB meeting underscores KAUST's commitment to aligning its research and development efforts with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, fostering a thriving digital economy through strategic partnerships and innovation.
KAUST held its 5th annual KAUST Industry Advisory Board (KIAB) meeting with 27 Saudi and international corporations and five government agencies. The meeting focused on aligning KAUST's research with industry needs and fostering collaboration for economic development in the Kingdom. SWCC emphasized the importance of partnerships with KAUST and developing human capital, rather than relying on "black box" solutions. Why it matters: The event underscores KAUST's role as a facilitator of innovation and collaboration between academia, industry, and government, which is crucial for advancing the Kingdom's AI and technology sectors.