Cisco has taken a big step to increase its influence in the AI sector with the launch of a $1 billion fund specifically earmarked for investing in AI startups. The investment, however small by AI standards, is to foster creative solutions and help businesses navigate the AI landscape, according to CEO Chuck Robbins, who made the news at the company’s “Cisco Live” event in Las Vegas.

This investment is in line with Cisco’s overarching goal to be a leading partner for clients throughout this technological shift. It is part of the company’s plan to “connect and protect the AI era.” The company has already given well-known AI startups including Mistral AI, Scale AI, and Cohere close to $200 million. These enterprises specialize on generative AI, platforms for training and validation, and huge language models for businesses with a security focus.

Cisco’s Chief Strategy Officer, Mark Patterson, emphasized the company’s distinct ability to assist clients in developing, safeguarding, and expanding their AI capabilities. He underlined that in order to better serve client needs, Cisco invests in both technology and the larger AI ecosystem.

Cisco is also collaborating with bigger companies to improve AI infrastructure. Cisco announced a partnership on an AI cluster solution for data centers at the same event. By revolutionizing the way clients manage and optimize software and infrastructure, this solution seeks to free them up to focus on AI innovations and new revenue sources, rather than IT management.

Cisco is establishing itself as a key player in the AI sector by means of these calculated investments and alliances, providing all-inclusive solutions to meet the changing demands of companies operating in the AI era.