US-based data and AI powerhouse Databricks has announced a major expansion plan in India, pledging an investment of over $250 million over the next three years. The move signals the company’s intent to make India a key hub for innovation, talent development, and global AI product delivery.

As part of the plan, Databricks has opened a new R&D center in Bengaluru, which will serve as a core engine for developing advanced AI and data technologies. The company also revealed its intention to grow its India workforce by more than 50%, with over 750 new hires expected by year-end.

Building India’s AI Workforce

One of the most ambitious parts of Databricks’ India strategy is the launch of the India Data + AI Academy. The program is designed to train over 500,000 people in the next three years across data science, machine learning, and modern analytics platforms. The initiative will cater to a wide audience — from enterprise customers and partners to students and tech professionals.

Customers and Momentum

Databricks is already powering AI and analytics for major Indian enterprises including HDFC Bank, Zepto, Swiggy, TVS Motors, and Freshworks. With this new investment, the company aims to deepen its relationships with Indian businesses while building new capabilities locally.

“India is a key market for us,” said Ed Lenta, SVP for Asia Pacific and Japan at Databricks. “There’s exceptional talent here, and our goal is to contribute to India’s tech ecosystem while creating world-class AI solutions from this region.”

A Broader Industry Shift

The announcement comes at a time when global technology giants are increasingly looking to India — not just as a cost-effective engineering base, but as a strategic center for innovation and AI excellence. With a vast pool of digital talent, growing enterprise demand, and a thriving startup scene, India is fast becoming one of the most important markets in the global AI race.

Databricks’ investment underlines this shift and adds momentum to India’s aspirations of becoming a global AI hub.