Nvidia is reportedly discussing a $250 billion financing guarantee to support OpenAI’s planned 10-gigawatt AI data center campus in Ohio. The project, developed by SoftBank’s energy division, could cost over $500 billion. Nvidia is also exploring up to $350 billion in financing for AI chip purchases. The first 800-megawatt phase is targeted for completion by 2028. Global AI investment is projected to surpass $700 billion annually. The deal would reduce OpenAI’s reliance on cloud providers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Oracle. Nvidia, OpenAI, and the U.S. Commerce Department declined to comment.
Nvidia-OpenAI discussions have reportedly advanced toward a $250 billion financing guarantee to support one of the world’s largest artificial intelligence data center projects. The financing proposal will enable OpenAI to lease a proposed 10-gigawatt AI campus in southern Ohio, developed by SoftBank.
The campus is expected to cost more than $500 billion, but the guarantee from Nvidia will cover OpenAI’s leasing and borrowing for the project rather than AI chip purchases. Nvidia is also reportedly planning to offer financial support for the acquisition of AI chips worth around $350 billion.
According to reports, the Nvidia-OpenAI financing proposal fits into the company’s plan to develop computing infrastructure independent of cloud providers. The first phase of the project is expected to generate about 800 megawatts by 2028 before reaching the planned 10-gigawatt mark.
Analysts note that the development of computing infrastructure is a big hindrance to AI expansion amid increasing need for advanced processors and electricity. Through this deal, Nvidia can enhance lender confidence and ensure future demand for its AI chips.
The negotiations come amid continued global competition for AI infrastructure. The deal would be made alongside a power allocation deal involving Japan’s $33 billion investment in natural gas. If finalized, the Nvidia-OpenAI deal could redefine how AI giants finance infrastructure, reducing dependency on other cloud service providers. Global AI investment is expected to cross the $700 billion mark this year.
