Nebius has just broken ground on its flagship AI factory campus in Independence, Missouri. The project is the company’s first gigawatt-scale digital infrastructure project in the US. Also, this project the one in Columbus, Ohio reinstate USA’s position as a leading AI hub globally. The country has recently seen a boom in data centers’ development and proposals.
The ceremony brought together state and local leaders, economic development partners, community members and company representatives to mark the start of construction of the multi-building AI factory on approximately 400 acres in eastern Independence.
Nebius Sets Foot in Kansas
Moreover, Nebius already operates in the Kansas City area and sees the Independence AI factory as a critical next step in its long-term growth in the US.
“Projects like this are built for the long term, and we are committed to developing this facility in a way that directly benefits Independence,” stated Nebius Board Chairman, John Boynton. “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.”
“Missouri continues to lead in innovation, infrastructure, and investment, and this facility in Independence is another example of that momentum in action,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “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. We are proud to support investments that keep Missouri competitive and moving forward.”
Additionally, construction of the first phase of the AI factory is now underway. In both the construction and operation phases, Nebius has put in place intentional design measures to minimize impact at a local level, including by minimizing water use, containing noise and light, and protecting ratepayers.
Economic Impact of Missouri’s Gigawatt-Scale AI Factory
Moreover, the project will create approximately 1,200 construction jobs overwhelmingly drawn from local union building trades and 130 permanent high-tech positions at full operation. Furthermore, Nebius’ Independence investment is also expected to generate $650 million in tax payments to local school districts and taxing jurisdictions over the next 20 years.
Community Benefits
Lastly, Nebius remains committed to transparent operations and sustained community engagement. As part of this, the company has established a community benefits plan focused on education and local investment, and has already begun to put this into practice, including a recent donation to eliminate school meal debt at Independence and Ft. Osage School Districts and an initial agreement with Metropolitan Community College focused on AI literacy and workforce development.
Missouri’s Gigawatt-Scale AI Factory Project Factsheet
Developer: Nebius (NASDAQ: NBIS)
Location: 400-acre site at Rte. 78 and Little Blue Parkway, Independence, MO (Eastern Independence).
Total Investment: Initial land/site investment of $6.6 billion, with total multi-phase development expected to reach tens of billions.
Project Scale: Multi-building “AI Factory” campus.
Groundbreaking: May 12, 2026.
Operational Timeline: Phase I capacity is expected online in late 2026, with full campus ramp-up stretching through 2029.
Total Capacity: Up to 1.2 Gigawatts (GW) at full build-out.
Power Partners: Independence Power & Light (IPL), with bridge energy support from NextEra Energy and Evergy (including Oklahoma wind generation).
