Taiwan Launches Second Call for AI Computing Center Proposals

Taiwan's Digital Development Ministry (MOD) has initiated the second call for proposals for its ambitious AI computing center project, utilizing a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) model. This initiative aims to leverage private sector investment and expertise to establish critical AI infrastructure, with the application window closing on October 5.

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The Digital Development Ministry has launched the second call for proposals for the AI computing center BOO project, once again opening applications to private companies.

The first round of this project, launched in April, attracted three proposals, with two companies, Yawan Supercomputing and Tech-Compute Technology, successfully passing the qualification review. Following the initial submission deadline, the ministry received further inquiries from three to four domestic companies, prompting the launch of this second solicitation on August 7. The BOO model, as defined by Article 8, Paragraph 1, Item 6 of the Act for Promoting Private Participation in Public Construction, allows private entities to independently invest in, construct, and operate AI computing centers on their own land.

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The application deadline is October 5.

Key requirements for applicants in this second round remain largely consistent with the first. The total investment, excluding land costs, must exceed NT$300 million (approximately $9.3 million USD). The computing power must reach at least 15 PetaFLOPS under 32-bit floating-point operations (FP32). Beyond hardware and capital investment, applicants must present a public benefit feedback plan. This includes offering a certain proportion of free public computing power to government agencies, industries, and academic institutions, potentially with preferential rates for SMEs, or contributing to AI talent cultivation and digital transformation initiatives.

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The total investment (excluding land) must reach over NT$300 million, with computing power of at least 15 PetaFLOPS under FP32 conditions.

Cybersecurity and operational resilience are also paramount. Applicants must detail robust information and communication technology asset management measures, including disaster recovery, business continuity, data backup, and off-site redundancy. Risk management strategies should align with relevant regulations, such as the Computer and Cyber Security Management Act. The project underscores Taiwan's commitment to advancing its AI capabilities and fostering a secure, resilient digital infrastructure.

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Applicants must also propose public benefit feedback, such as providing free public computing power to government agencies and industries.