Nebius, the AI cloud company listed on Nasdaq under the ticker NBIS, has officially broken ground on its flagship AI factory campus in Independence, Missouri, marking the start of construction on what the company describes as its first gigawatt-scale digital infrastructure project in the United States.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together state and local leaders, economic development partners, community members, and company representatives.

The multi-building campus will be built on approximately 400 acres in eastern Independence, and Nebius says it already operates in the Kansas City area, viewing the Independence facility as a critical next step in its long-term US expansion.

A Campus Built for Scale

Construction of the first phase of the AI factory is now underway. The project is described by the company as a multi-building campus designed for gigawatt-scale operations, placing it among the largest digital infrastructure undertakings in the country.

Nebius Board Chairman John Boynton framed the project as a long-term commitment to the region. "Projects like this are built for the long term, and we are committed to developing this facility in a way that directly benefits Independence," Boynton said at the ceremony.

"We want to create lasting opportunities, act as a good partner with the community, and set a standard for developing AI and digital infrastructure responsibly."

The company says it has implemented intentional design measures to reduce local impact during both construction and operation phases, including steps to minimize water use, contain noise and light, and protect ratepayers.

Jobs and Economic Impact

Nebius projects the Independence campus will create approximately 1,200 construction jobs, which the company says will be drawn overwhelmingly from local union building trades.

At full operation, the facility is expected to support 130 permanent high-tech positions.

Beyond direct employment, the company estimates the investment will generate USD 650 million in tax payments to local school districts and taxing jurisdictions over the next 20 years.

The Independence School District alone is projected to receive more than USD 463 million over that same period, according to Dr. Cynthia Grant, Deputy Superintendent of Instructional Services for the district.

"The Nebius AI factory represents a once-in-a-generation economic opportunity for our community," Grant said. "For our district, it is projected to generate more than USD 463 million over the next 20 years, providing long-term stability and allowing us to better support our students, staff, and schools."

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe attended the ceremony and offered strong backing for the project, citing its role in bolstering the state's competitive position in digital infrastructure.

"Missouri continues to lead in innovation, infrastructure, and investment, and this facility in Independence is another example of that momentum in action," Kehoe said.

"This investment from Nebius strengthens Missouri's position as a national leader in digital infrastructure, while creating quality jobs, supporting local schools and businesses, and generating long-term opportunity."

Community Benefits and Education Partnerships

Alongside the construction announcement, Nebius has established a community benefits plan with a focus on education and local investment.

The company says it has already begun implementing the plan, including a donation to eliminate school meal debt at both the Independence and Ft.

Osage School Districts.

Nebius has also entered into an initial agreement with Metropolitan Community College centered on AI literacy and workforce development.

Dr. Kimberly Beatty, Chancellor of Metropolitan Community College, said the partnership carries significant value for the region's educational ecosystem.

"The addition of Nebius to the Kansas City region will add value to the economic development ecosystem through their contribution to the community and K-16 education system," Beatty said.

"For MCC and most education entities, the ability to learn and partner with an AI expert has tremendous return on investment."

Regional and Industry Voices Back the Project

The groundbreaking drew support from a broad range of economic development and industry figures. Valerie Byrnes, President of the Independence Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Partnership, described the project as a catalyst for long-term regional growth.

"This is a pivotal project that elevates a city's trajectory, attracting new industries, driving infrastructure investment, and creating momentum that will shape our economy for decades to come," Byrnes said.

Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development, called Nebius's expansion decision a strong signal for the state's technology sector.

"This billion-dollar investment and creation of new jobs will bring new opportunities to the region while strengthening the state's growing reputation as a destination for high-tech industry and forward-looking investment," she said.

Tim Cowden, President and CEO of the Kansas City Area Development Council, said the decision by Nebius to select Independence reflects the strength of the region's infrastructure and talent pipeline.

Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership, pointed to the state's central location and ability to deliver power at scale as key factors in attracting next-generation technology investment.

NVIDIA Vice President of External Affairs Ned Finkle also appeared at the ceremony, tying the project to broader national trends in AI infrastructure development.

"Artificial intelligence is driving the largest infrastructure buildout in history, and that buildout must be rooted here in the United States," Finkle said.

"This Nebius campus will create thousands of jobs, strengthen American supply chains, and build the AI factories that will power the next era of computing."