Applied Digital, a leader in high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure, announced a $160 million strategic financing deal from institutional and accredited investors, including NVIDIA and Related Companies. This investment solidifies Applied Digital's leadership in accelerated compute infrastructure, helping the company scale its cutting-edge data center and GPU cloud solutions. The new capital will bolster Applied Digital's ability to deploy transformative AI and HPC data centers, including developing one of the world's largest data centers and an additional 300MW of data center capacity. The company's innovative platform leverages advanced technologies such as closed-loop liquid cooling, providing hyper-efficient environments tailored for AI and HPC workloads. “Applied Digital was built on its ability to identify market demands, and we believe our collective philosophy, technical expertise, and long-standing industry experience have brought us to our current place of strength that will carry us and our hyperscale customers securely into the AI and HPC future,” notes Wes Cummins, CEO and Chairman at Applied Digital. “We’re proud of our strong relationship with NVIDIA, and the confidence that both they and Related Companies, along with institutional investors, have placed in us. Our team is eager to bring to market the vital capacity and contiguous, liquid-cooled IT environments that are tailor-made for AI, HPC, and other accelerated compute workloads.” As a Preferred NVIDIA Cloud Partner, Applied Digital continues to lead the market in digital infrastructure innovation, addressing the increasing demand for AI and HPC solutions. Read the full press release here .

T5 Data Centers is significantly expanding its footprint in Atlanta by developing a new data center campus in South Fulton County, Georgia. The newly acquired 91-acre site in Palmetto is already zoned for data center use and will be scalable to support up to 300 megawatts (MW) of power capacity. This expansion, known as ATL IV, will play a vital role in bolstering the region's tech infrastructure and meeting the growing demands for high-performance cloud services. ATL IV will feature advanced AI capabilities and liquid cooling technology, aligning with T5's commitment to innovation and sustainability. The new campus will cater to hyperscalers and large enterprises with demanding computational needs, offering a future-ready environment designed to support their growth. T5 says that by providing liquid cooling to the rack, it is setting a new standard for energy efficiency and sustainability in data center construction and operations. ATL IV will benefit from robust electrical and network infrastructure strategically located near other major data center hubs, ensuring exceptional connectivity and low-latency data transmission. An onsite electrical substation, expected to be operational by 2026, will provide efficient and redundant power to the facility. The development of ATL IV marks a significant step forward in T5's broader mission to expand its data center footprint across the U.S. and Europe. Read more here .

In a significant move for the data center industry, Blue Owl Capital, Chirisa Technology Parks (CTP), and PowerHouse Data Centers have announced a joint venture (JV) to develop large-scale AI/HPC data centers for CoreWeave. This partnership, which has the potential to deploy up to $5 billion in capital, marks the first phase of a major initiative aimed at supporting CoreWeave and other hyperscale and enterprise data center customers across the United States. The JV is designed to provide a flexible and innovative capital solution, enabling the rapid development of new AI/HPC capacity. The initial 120MW of capacity under the program will be delivered for CoreWeave in 2025 and 2026 at CTP's 350-acre campus near Richmond, VA. Further deployments are also planned for sites in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, Kentucky, and Nevada, including both brownfield and greenfield campuses. The JV is positioned to play a crucial role in meeting the growing demands of the AI and hyperscale markets, with Newmark serving as advisor to the partnership. As the initiative progresses, it is expected to make a substantial impact on the development of cutting-edge data center infrastructure across the country. Read the full press release here .

After a slowdown in 2023, data center mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are on the rise again, with 2024 potentially set to surpass $40 billion in deal value. According to Synergy Research Group, the industry is nearing the record highs seen in 2021, driven by strong demand for data center capacity and a significant influx of private equity. While 2021 and 2022 saw peak deal values around $50 billion, 2023 experienced a sharp decline to $26 billion. However, 2024 is already showing signs of recovery, with $36.7 billion in deals closed and an additional $7.1 billion pending. A pipeline of over $20 billion in potential deals could increase this year's total. “There has been an inexorable rise in the demand for data center capacity, driven by cloud services, social networking and a range of both consumer and enterprise digital services. The rise of generative AI is adding a further boost to demand. Specialist data center operators have either not been able to fund those investments themselves, or they were not prepared to put their balance sheets at risk,” said John Dinsdale, a Chief Analyst at Synergy Research Group. “Meanwhile, data centers are very much being viewed as long-term safe havens for investments, even during turbulent times, which has caused a huge influx in private equity. We do not anticipate that picture changing any time soon.” Since 2015, Synergy has tracked 1,381 data center M&A deals, totaling $276 billion in value, highlighting the sector's growing importance and investment appeal. Read the full press release here .

The International Data Center Authority (IDCA) has announced the addition of Mark Gusakov as Chief Certification Officer. With an extensive background that includes leadership roles at Uptime Institute, Rittal and Data Inventions, Gusakov brings deep expertise in digital infrastructure and a passion for advancing industry standards. He also serves on the Advisory Board of Nomad Futurist and chairs its Governance Committee. “After being heavily vested in a wide variety of applications serving the digital infrastructure industry for over two decades, my latest experiences have brought me to the conclusion that the future belongs to the vision IDCA is depicting and supporting for our industry", stated Mark Gusakov on the occasion of his joining. "Collaborative compliance standards are critical to a modern, holistic, and effective set of open standards that address AI, application, and Cloud needs, to bring transparency and enable simplified decision-making for end-users,” he continued. "The IDCA approach is game-changing and necessary. There is nothing else like it. IDCA is the Digital Infrastructure benchmark of excellence we have been waiting for." IDCA is known for establishing comprehensive, unbiased standards that serve as benchmarks for information management, data delivery, and digital infrastructure. With certifications spanning data centers, cloud, and IT operations, IDCA continues to lead the industry in providing the most advanced training and validation for professionals worldwide. Read the full press release here .

Connectbase, a leading global platform for buying and selling connectivity, has announced a strategic partnership with Eurofiber, a prominent provider of open digital infrastructure in Europe. This collaboration brings Eurofiber’s expansive 70,500 km fiber optic network into Connectbase’s Connected World platform, enabling seamless real-time quoting across key European markets. Eurofiber, known for its robust infrastructure across the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, will now be able to showcase its network to Connectbase’s ecosystem of over 300 global network providers spanning more than 150 countries. This partnership is designed to meet the rising demand for connectivity in Europe by offering a more efficient way to access and promote fiber services. "We are thrilled to partner with Connectbase and be part of their solution-oriented ecosystem," said Rhoderick van der Wyck , Eurofiber's Managing Director of International Business. "Together, we can fulfill our mission of continually extending our fiber and cloud connectivity for all secure and business operational-critical traffic." For Connectbase, adding Eurofiber strengthens its marketplace by giving global buyers direct access to high-quality European network options. "Eurofiber is a highly respected brand within the European markets," said Connectbase VP of EMEA Edison Smith . "It’s exciting that they have chosen to partner with Connectbase. We are seeing significant increases in demand for connectivity in Europe and adding another high-quality network provider like Eurofiber will be a great addition for our global buyers.” This collaboration is a significant step forward for both companies, as they will collaborate to simplify the process of sourcing reliable connectivity in a rapidly evolving market. Read the full press release here .

South Reach Networks (SRN), a top telecommunications provider in Florida, has launched an enhanced product suite aimed at supporting the growing Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) industry along the state’s East Coast. The updated offerings cater to connectivity providers and Homeowners Association (HOA) operators, enabling them to meet rising demand with custom interconnect solutions. This launch follows SRN’s recent collaboration with Windstream Wholesale, expanding the Beach Route Dark Fiber Alliance by 360 miles from Jacksonville to Miami. With nearly 1,400 fiber miles now spanning from Ashburn, VA to Miami, SRN’s extended reach allows it to deliver these new services to a broader customer base. As Florida’s residential growth accelerates, FTTH and triple-play providers require seamless connections to HOA communities and key peering points. SRN’s flexible infrastructure offers economical solutions by integrating fiber interconnects into its long-haul network, helping operators expand quickly and cost-effectively. “SRN’s network infrastructure products have been optimized to support these specific needs, allowing the flexibility to tailor custom interconnect solutions,” states Mike Sevret, President of South Reach Networks. “In addition to the longhaul fiber extension via the Beach Route and new FTTH Interconnect solutions, SRN is on net into over 13 strategic data centers/subsea cable stations and is establishing critical tie-ins with over 20 additional data centers that are in clear proximity to the existing SRN fiber network. These updates are a testament to SRN’s strong growth and support of key verticals that include FTTH, data centers and subsea cable operators.” With nearly half of Florida homes governed by HOAs, SRN’s strategic approach offers operators ready-built infrastructure to streamline network rollouts, reducing costs and deployment times. Read the full press release here .

Edged Data Centers is continuing its rapid North American expansion with a new ultra-efficient data center in New Albany, Ohio, located in the thriving tech hub known as the Silicon Heartland. The upcoming facility, set to be completed by July 2025, will deliver 24 MW of critical capacity, with a strong focus on sustainability through waterless cooling systems and industry-leading energy efficiency. Designed for high-density AI workloads, the New Albany center will save nearly 95 million gallons of water annually – a crucial benefit given the area’s growing water scarcity issues. Edged's use of cutting-edge cooling technology supports densities of up to 200 kW per rack, making it ideal for the demands of generative AI and other advanced computing applications. “We are on a mission to build data centers for positive impact. We are thrilled to be partnering with the New Albany community to support their thriving digital economy in a way that is sustainable and conserves precious local resources.  Our highly differentiated platform of technologies is optimized for energy efficiency, water conservation and top-tier performance,” said Bryant Farland, Chief Executive Officer for Edged. The facility aligns with the community’s values, focusing on environmental sustainability while contributing to local growth. Part of a larger North American expansion, this facility joins Edged’s growing network of sustainable data centers under construction in key cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and Phoenix. As Edged continues to push for greener digital infrastructure, the New Albany center is a significant step forward in their mission to build a global network of environmentally responsible data centers. Read the full press release here .

RadiusDC has taken a big step in its growth strategy with the acquisition of Miami I, a highly interconnected data center located in Sweetwater, Florida. Known for its carrier-neutral environment and robust network connectivity, Miami I is a strategic asset that connects South Florida to European and South American markets. With support from IPI Partners, RadiusDC plans to invest heavily in the facility, increasing its capacity from 3.2 MW to 9.2 MW of critical IT power by 2026. The two-story building, designed to withstand Category 5 hurricane winds, covers 170,000 square feet and is home to a diverse ecosystem of fiber optic and network service providers. Mike Krza, CEO of RadiusDC, emphasized that Miami I aligns perfectly with the company’s connectivity-focused platform, saying, "We believe Miami I is an ideal asset to expand the geographic reach of our connectivity-focused platform given the strength of its existing network and immediately available growth potential," stated Mike Krza, Chief Executive Officer of RadiusDC. "We are excited to deliver new strategic data center capacity in the South Florida market over the coming year." This move is part of a broader strategy to address the needs of hyperscale customers in highly connected environments. With the backing of IPI, RadiusDC continues to expand its footprint across North America’s urban centers, reinforcing its role in supporting the next wave of IT infrastructure growth. As the Miami I facility transitions under new ownership, it remains a critical hub for regional and international digital connectivity, set to play a pivotal role in the area’s ongoing tech evolution. Read the full press release here .

Edged Energy has officially opened its first North American data center in Atlanta, marking a significant step forward in sustainable digital infrastructure. Located at the transformed Tilford Yard site, the facility is the first of three data centers planned for the 168 MW Edged Atlanta campus. The state-of-the-art facility is designed for high-density AI workloads and features cutting-edge waterless cooling systems that save nearly 664 million gallons of water annually while delivering industry-leading energy efficiency. The grand opening event highlighted the project's economic and environmental benefits to the region, including $70 million in tax revenue over the next decade. Edged CEO Bryant Farland emphasized the significance of the $1.69 billion investment in Atlanta, which will create hundreds of jobs, support local schools and boost public services. With the first building now live, delivering 27 MW of capacity, the Atlanta campus is set to be a key player in the region's growing digital economy. Edged continues to expand its presence with additional data centers under construction in major U.S. cities like Chicago, Dallas and Phoenix. As a subsidiary of Endeavour, Edged is rapidly advancing its mission to build a global network of sustainable, water-efficient data centers. Read the full press release here .

August 13, 2024 - FiberLight been selected to build a 10 Gbps fiber network for the Region 16 Education Service Center in the Texas Panhandle. This project will significantly improve internet access for rural schools and communities. Key features: Covers 26,000 square miles, serving 59 of 60 school districts Benefits 80,000 students and 11,000+ educators Utilizes FCC's E-Rate program for funding Potential for broader community impact The network aims to enhance educational experiences and catalyze broader economic growth. FiberLight's Chief Strategy Officer Ron Kormos noted the project's potential to benefit local governments, emergency services, and businesses beyond schools. While focusing on education, this infrastructure is expected to enable last-mile providers to extend connectivity to homes and businesses across the region. FiberLight plans to break ground in Q1 2025, setting a model for rural connectivity nationwide. Read the full press release here .

Vantage Data Centers has broken ground on a new 256MW data center campus in Cyberjaya, Malaysia, marking a significant expansion of its Asia-Pacific operations. This development, announced on August 6, 2024, represents Vantage's largest APAC campus and underscores Malaysia's growing importance in the global digital economy. Key highlights of the new KUL2 campus include: 35-acre site adjacent to Vantage's existing KUL1 campus 256MW of IT capacity at full build-out Dedicated substation for enhanced flexibility and speed Design supporting both cloud and high-density computing deployments This expansion is part of Vantage's previously announced US$3 billion investment plan in Malaysia. Once completed, Vantage's total capacity in the country will reach 287MW, cementing its position as a leading data center provider in the region. The new campus strategically aligns with Malaysia's digital ambitions, particularly in AI and smart manufacturing. As noted by government officials, this development will not only contribute to Malaysia's goal of creating 3,000 smart factories by 2030 but also position the country as a regional hub for AI-enabled manufacturing, fostering optimism for the future of Malaysia's digital economy. Vantage has also secured a significant power agreement with Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) for 500MVA-rated capacity, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the new campus, providing reassurance about the project's sustainability. This expansion strengthens Vantage's market position and contributes to Malaysia's digital infrastructure, supporting the country's vision to become a leading digital economy in Southeast Asia. For more information on Vantage's APAC operations, which now span five markets with 452MW of operational and planned capacity, visit their website at vantage-dc.com . Read the full press release here .