Graphcore’s Strategic Investment in India’s AI Semiconductor Sector
Graphcore, an AI chipmaker based in the UK and backed by SoftBank, has declared an impressive £1 billion investment (approximately $1.3 billion) in India over the forthcoming decade. The organisation is set to establish its inaugural AI Engineering Campus in Bengaluru, aiming to generate 500 semiconductor engineering positions.
In the first phase of this initiative, Graphcore will recruit 100 engineers. These professionals will concentrate on various domains such as silicon logical design, physical design, verification, characterisation, and bring-up. The team will be responsible for creating semiconductor products that facilitate AI applications across multiple sectors, including drug discovery, public health, environmental monitoring, and business operations.
The Bengaluru campus is intended to serve as the central hub for Graphcore’s endeavours in AI computing. This significant investment from Graphcore aligns with India’s rise as a pivotal player in the global AI semiconductor landscape.
Furthermore, Graphcore intends to focus on local recruitment, harnessing India’s engineering talent. This initiative is a component of a broader strategy to enhance its AI chip manufacturing capabilities and bolster AI applications on a global scale.
The anticipated investment is set to create direct job opportunities while also providing essential training programmes for engineers within the semiconductor industry. This move positions India as a significant site for international AI chip development.
Research, product development, and testing will take place at the Bengaluru campus, with Graphcore coordinating closely with SoftBank’s global AI operations to effectively manage product design and manufacturing processes within India. This project signifies Graphcore’s inaugural large-scale semiconductor investment in India, aimed at promoting AI product development and nurturing talent in the upcoming decade.
