On January 21, 2025, President Donald Trump announced the Stargate Project—a $500 billion tech infrastructure initiative spearheaded by OpenAI, SoftBank, Oracle, and investment firm MGX. Spanning four years, the project aims to create over 100,000 jobs in construction, engineering, and technology, while solidifying the growing U.S.-Japan economic partnership.
The initiative launches with an initial $100 billion investment, focusing on constructing advanced data centers and computing facilities. The first phase involves building 10 data centers in Abilene, Texas, each covering 500,000 square feet, with plans to expand to 20 centers and additional states.
SoftBank, led by CEO Masayoshi Son, will provide significant financial backing, reinforcing Japan’s expanding role in U.S. tech infrastructure. OpenAI, under CEO Sam Altman, will oversee operations focusing on AI advancements, while Oracle, co-founded by Larry Ellison, contributes its expertise in data center management. MGX will supply additional financial support to meet the project’s ambitious goals.
This move comes amid record-high U.S.-Japan trade relations. In 2023, bilateral trade between the two nations reached $280 billion, with Japan ranking as the U.S.’s fourth-largest trading partner. Japanese investment in the U.S. exceeded $700 billion, with over 900,000 Americans employed by Japanese firms, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Stargate Project adds another layer to this robust partnership, highlighting Japan’s strategic role in bolstering U.S. tech infrastructure.
The project’s focus on sectors like healthcare and manufacturing aligns with rising demand for advanced computing solutions. Additionally, this large-scale investment will help reduce reliance on foreign technology. As construction progresses, partnerships with local governments and sustained policy support will be key to ensuring timelines are met and economic benefits are maximized.
