A consortium including Paragon Developments, global innovation platform Plug & Play Tech Center, Schneider Electric, and Orange Egypt has announced the launch of Egypt’s first integrated artificial intelligence hub, “AI Campus.” Situated within the “SUMOU BLVD” project in New Cairo, the campus will also host the “AI 100” program, a strategic initiative to support 100 Egyptian AI startups by 2030.
Quick Facts
- Goal: Support and develop 100 AI startups by 2030.
- Location: SUMOU BLVD project in New Cairo, Egypt.
- Key Partners: Paragon | Adeer, Plug & Play, Schneider Electric, Orange Egypt.
Building a Hub for AI Innovation
The AI Campus is designed as an open platform for collaboration between startups, corporations, and investors. Located on a 500-feddan area, its development is centered around three core pillars: AI and innovation, education, and energy efficiency. The goal is to create a unified ecosystem that supports the development of commercially viable technology solutions.
The launch was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed at the Grand Egyptian Museum, attended by government officials, business leaders, and investors from across the region.
The “AI 100” Initiative
At the heart of the new campus is the “AI 100” program, a four-year initiative aimed at identifying, developing, and supporting a new generation of AI-focused companies in Egypt.
The program will provide selected startups with access to training bootcamps, specialized workshops, and investment readiness tracks. A key component is the direct integration between the participating startups and the AI Campus, positioning them to become part of the hub’s operational ecosystem in the future.
Strategic Partnerships Powering the Campus
The project is driven by a series of strategic collaborations. Orange Egypt will lead the development of the campus’s digital smart infrastructure, providing advanced connectivity solutions including 5G and IoT.
“Launching the AI Campus reflects Orange Egypt’s commitment to building an integrated system for digital innovation in Egypt,” said Mohamed Shabl, Deputy CEO of the Business Sector at Orange Egypt. “We are not just providing advanced infrastructure; we are helping to empower a new generation of startups and enhance their ability to compete regionally and globally.”
Badeer Rizk, CEO of Paragon | Adeer, added, “The AI complex in Sumou Boulevard represents a turning point for Egypt, where innovation meets sustainability. In cooperation with Plug and Play, we are not just building infrastructure, but establishing an integrated system capable of absorbing global opportunities and evolving with them.”
Plug & Play’s role will focus on connecting local startups to its global network, creating pathways for international growth.
“The AI Campus and the ‘AI 100’ program are a real platform to strengthen Egypt’s position as a regional center for artificial intelligence,” stated Karima El Hakim, Regional Director of Plug & Play in Egypt.
Schneider Electric’s involvement underscores the project’s focus on sustainability. Sebastien Riez, the company’s CEO for North Africa and the Levant, noted that the partnership reflects a trend toward developing smart cities that integrate energy and technology, with the campus serving as a model for AI-driven energy efficiency solutions.
About AI Campus
AI Campus is an integrated artificial intelligence center located within the SUMOU BLVD project in New Cairo, Egypt. Developed by an alliance led by Paragon | Adeer, the campus is built to foster collaboration between startups, corporations, and investors. It focuses on three main pillars: AI and innovation, education, and energy efficiency, aiming to accelerate Egypt’s digital economy.
Source: Al Mal News
