Paris: French artificial intelligence (AI) startup, LightOn, is set to expand its operations into Europe and the Middle East. The company, which recently made its stock market debut on the Euronext Growth exchange, targets sectors such as banking, defense, and high-tech that prioritize data security and local server infrastructure.
Laurent Daudet, co-CEO of LightOn, identified Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other neighboring countries as key markets for the company’s custom AI models. These models are designed to address the specific needs of industries with stringent data privacy requirements.
LightOn’s strategic move is driven by the increasing demand for AI solutions that can be deployed on local servers, particularly in regions with strict data regulations. This approach aligns with the concerns of companies that prioritize data sovereignty and security.
“Being European in this type of geography is interesting, it allows us to be neutral in the war of the giants that the Americans and the Chinese are waging, that can be an interesting position,” Daudet said.
However, LightOn faces stiff competition from major AI players such as OpenAI, Anthropic, and Mistral. To navigate this competitive landscape, the company is actively seeking international distribution partnerships to expand its reach and market share.
LightOn’s expansion plans and strategic focus on data security and local deployment offer a unique proposition in the global AI market. As the demand for AI solutions continues to grow, the company’s ability to address the specific needs of various industries could position it as a significant player in the years to come.
