NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following photo and statement after touring xAI’s Memphis facilities. In June 2024, xAI announced plans to build the world's largest AI supercomputer, named Colossus, in Memphis:

“Tennessee is the best state in the nation to do business, and xAI’s Memphis facility is proof that innovative companies thrive when entrpreneurs like Elon Musk choose to set up shop in our state,” said Senator Blackburn.  “Touring the site, I witnessed first-hand how xAI is creating hundreds of good-paying jobs, generating millions for Memphis and Shelby County, and partnering with small businesses to give hardworking Memphians exciting economic opportunities. This is only the beginning of what xAI will accomplish, and I’m excited to see how the company continues to grow and flourish for years to come.”

Click here to download this photo of Senator Blackburn.

BACKGROUND

• xAI was founded by Elon Musk in 2023.
  
  
• xAI’s Memphis facility occupies a 785,000-square-foot former Electrolux manufacturing plant. xAI has committed more than $10 billion to turn the plant into state-of-the-art super computer.
  
  
• Memphis was chosen for a number of strategic reasons, including:
  
  
  • Existing industrial infrastructure, including access to water and energy resources;
    
    
  • Logistical advantages due to the city’s location as a major freight and shipping hub; and
    
    
  • Economic incentives provided by local and state governments eager to bring high-tech jobs and investment to the area.
    
    
• In March, xAI announced a significant expansion of its operations in Memphis with the acquisition of a one million square foot property.
  
  
• The development of the new facility is expected to attract additional tech companies to the region, further enhancing the city's status as the "Digital Delta" and contributing to the local economy through job creation and technological advancement.
  
  
• xAI has made numerous commitments to the city of Memphis, including:
  
  
  • Constructing an $80 million graywater recycling facility in Southwest Memphis, protecting the Memphis Aquifer for generations to come;
    
    
  • Developing a battery farm that allows its operations to function independently from the local power grid;
    
    
  • Creating over 320 high-paying jobs in Memphis, with 80% of the workforce being local hires. Hundreds of more hires are expected in the coming months and years; and
    
    
  • Generating between $15 and $20 million in tax revenue for the city.