Summary:
New AI Center of Excellence launched in downtown San Jose.
Collaboration between city officials, PG&E, and educational institutions to foster innovation.
Aim to create a startup cluster with 40 startups and hundreds of jobs.
San Jose State University to provide talent for the AI ecosystem.
PG&E to enhance infrastructure to support growing tech demands.
A New Era for AI in San Jose
A new artificial intelligence center has officially launched in downtown San Jose, marking a significant step towards establishing the city as a hub for tech innovation. The Plug and Play AI Center for Excellence will be located in a prominent tower at the intersection of First Street and Santa Clara Street.
PG&E CEO Patricia Poppe (L) and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan (R) converse during the launch event for the AI Center of Excellence in downtown San Jose at the City Hall Rotunda, April 2, 2025.
Collaboration for Growth
The launch is a joint effort by the city of San Jose, PG&E, San Jose State University, and Plug and Play, aimed at fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized the potential to create a startup cluster in the downtown area, with over 20 venture-backed AI startups already established.
The AI Center is expected to open in May, with plans to host up to 40 startups, potentially bringing hundreds of tech jobs to the area.
Vision for the Future
“We would love to bring some of these companies like Turing, Glean, Grok, to this AI Center of Excellence,” said Saeed Amidi, Plug and Play’s CEO. He believes San Jose is primed to become home to hundreds of startups in the coming years.
Educational Support
San Jose State University aims to support this initiative by providing tech-savvy students and entrepreneurs. President Cynthia Teniente-Matson stated that the university is aligned with the city’s vision to harness the potential of AI and emerging technologies.
The Role of PG&E
PG&E is playing a crucial role in this development, focusing on enhancing infrastructure to meet the growing demand for energy from tech companies. CEO Patricia Poppe highlighted the importance of preparing the city for the future of AI and innovation.
Innovative Showroom Concept
In addition to the AI Center, Plug and Play is exploring the creation of an AI incubator showroom across the street, allowing visitors to interact with AI technologies and see practical implementations.
Optimistic Outlook
With a 6,200 square feet office space leased in the 2 West Santa Clara building, this initiative is set to attract more emerging AI startups to downtown, creating an exciting synergy between innovation and urban experience.
Executives and officials cut a ribbon to mark the launch of the AI Center of Excellence in downtown San Jose, April 2, 2025.
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