Microsoft invests $1 billion in Columbus region data centers
Microsoft is investing $1 billion as part of a first phase of data center development into Central Ohio, One Columbus announced this week. Located in New Albany, Heath, and Hebron, these data centers will support Microsoft’s global cloud infrastructure, expanding capacity for Azure cloud services to meet growing demands in digital services and data storage.
As digital transformation accelerates, the need for robust cloud infrastructure has never been greater. Microsoft’s new facilities will bolster the company’s data capacity, supporting clients across industries as they transition to the cloud. The first phase of the project alone is set to create hundreds of full-time jobs, along with approximately 400 construction jobs annually during development.
Central Ohio’s $20 billion tech growth
Microsoft’s investment joins a wave of tech-driven growth in the Columbus Region, where technology-related investments now total more than $20 billion. Data centers are critical infrastructure for the digital economy, supporting everything from cloud storage to high-speed connectivity. Ohio’s strategic location, infrastructure, and workforce are positioning it as a leading destination for tech investments.
What’s next
Microsoft’s data center campuses will be developed in phases, with design, planning, and local permitting underway. If the project reaches full capacity, the campuses could expand significantly, bringing further investments and job opportunities to the region.
Microsoft’s continued expansion in Ohio signifies a new era for the state’s technology landscape, with lasting benefits anticipated for local communities, educational institutions, and the broader Ohio economy.
What they’re saying
“Microsoft’s investment in these new data center campuses reflects a commitment to strengthening the communities where they will operate while building cloud infrastructure in Ohio. Beyond the economic impact, these projects will bring lasting benefits by supporting local school districts, enhancing infrastructure, and creating new career pathways for residents.”
- J.P. Nauseef, President and CEO of JobsOhio
“We are excited to work with state, regional, and local partners to bring new datacenter campuses to the Columbus region. The Columbus Region’s skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and strategic location make it ideal for this project. Many Ohio businesses and government entities use the Microsoft cloud as the platform for their business operations. These datacenter developments will help us continue to effectively serve our Ohio customers.”
- Bowen Wallace, CVP Datacenters, Americas Region at Microsoft