ChatGPT maker OpenAI announced that it is evaluating U.S. states as potential locations for AI data centers as part of its massive Stargate venture. The project is being framed as a matter of urgency for the U.S. to maintain a competitive edge over China in the global AI race.

Last month, U.S. President Donald Trump announced Stargate, a private sector investment of up to US$500 billion for AI infrastructure. The initiative is funded by SoftBank, OpenAI, and Oracle, with these companies and other equity backers committing US$100 billion for immediate deployment. The remaining investment is expected to occur over the next four years.

Around 16 states have expressed interest in hosting data centers for Stargate, with Texas designated as the “flagship” site. The initial data center is already under construction in Abilene, Texas, developed by San Francisco-based startup Crusoe.

OpenAI expects to begin utilizing parts of the Abilene data center later this year and may announce additional sites in the coming months.