Acronis, a Singapore-based global leader in cyber protection, opened its operations center featuring a cutting-edge research and development office, along with its largest and fastest growing data center in Tempe, Arizona.

Over the next three years, the company will invest $50 million dollars in research and development efforts at the new Tempe facility, fueling innovative advances in blockchain, machine learning, and artificial intelligence-based cyber protection, as well as unique consulting services for the custom development and deployment of security and artificial intelligence solutions, according to Arizona Commerce Authority.

The work conducted at the new Tempe office will allow Acronis to build stronger partnerships with North American cloud providers, software vendors, telecoms, and managed service providers, state officials said.

“Arizona is North America’s hub for data center operations and professional services,” said Serguei Beloussov, Chairman and Acronis CEO. “As Acronis pursues an ambitious growth plan and continues delivering innovative cyber protection services, including our recently announced Acronis Cyber Platform, our presence and investment in Tempe is key to future research and development. We invite engineering experts and data center operations professionals from the city’s pool of talent to join our team and accomplish this exciting work on the cutting-edge of technology.”

“Acronis’s choice to locate a state-of-the-art research and development center and create hundreds of high-quality jobs in Arizona emphasizes our state’s position as a leader in technology and innovation,” said Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. “Acronis could have located this operation anywhere in the world, and we’re proud they chose Arizona.”

“We’re excited that Acronis has chosen Tempe as their new home in the U.S.,” said Mayor Mark Mitchell. “Our city prides itself on embracing innovation and being one of the nation’s top business destinations. Acronis’ rapid growth around the world shows them as a clear leader in the cyber protection industry and makes them a perfect addition to the tech sector clustering in Tempe.”

“The decision by Acronis to locate this advanced R&D center in Arizona is an excellent addition to our state’s already strong cybersecurity cluster,” said Sandra Watson, President & CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “Data protection is absolutely critical in today’s world. We’re confident that Arizona’s industry expertise, talent and educational institutions will provide Acronis with the ideal platform to continue meeting the needs of its rapidly growing customer base.”

“Acronis has already made an impact in Greater Phoenix and their continued investment in the region is further validation of our market’s ability to incubate innovative ideas, test their viability and then scale accordingly,” says Chris Camacho, President & CEO, Greater Phoenix Economic Council. “As Acronis expands their footprint in Greater Phoenix, this region will continue stepping up to the plate to assure they have the resources and support they need to thrive.”