SMEs demand local data processing for AI
In many companies, the use of artificial intelligence is shifting from isolated pilot projects to productive business processes. A recent study by CIO and COMPUTERWOCHE among IT decision-makers in German SMEs makes it clear: small and medium-sized businesses prefer to run their language models and AI workloads where their data is generated – whether in their own data center, at the edge, or in a secure colocation environment. A total of 20 percent of the companies surveyed have already begun expanding a local server infrastructure for AI, with a further 40 percent planning to take this step within the next twelve months. At the same time, companies face major challenges: high investment costs for new hardware, outdated systems, and strict requirements around data protection (GDPR) and governance are holding back many initiatives.
Strategic SUSE partnership for private cloud and digital sovereignty
To support companies in exactly this transformation, codecentric cloud GmbH has entered into a strategic partnership with open-source pioneer SUSE.
Using the flexible SUSE Cloud Native Stack, codecentric cloud GmbH builds future-proof private cloud platforms – including on existing, company-owned hardware. This allows businesses to run compute-intensive applications such as local AI models or classic enterprise software with high performance and without dependency on US hyperscalers. In doing so, they meet compliance requirements that apply across industries: from GDPR and BSI IT-Grundschutz to NIS2 and KRITIS, through to sector-specific regulations such as DORA.
"The findings of the COMPUTERWOCHE study reflect exactly what we observe in practice every day," explains Lars Rückemann, Board Member of codecentric AG. "Companies are looking for ways to leverage innovative technologies like AI without giving up control over their data and costs. With the SUSE Cloud Native Stack, we build precisely the kinds of processes and infrastructures that seamlessly combine digital sovereignty, full cost control, and data protection."
From platform to managed services
The collaboration with SUSE – born out of demanding requirements in the public sector, where sovereign private clouds on dedicated servers were required – goes far beyond pure license distribution. codecentric cloud GmbH aims to relieve customers of the burden from initial architecture consulting all the way through to full operational management via managed services. This also effectively addresses the industry-wide shortage of in-house IT professionals.
About codecentric AG & codecentric cloud GmbH
codecentric AG is one of the leading experts in custom software development, cloud architectures, data & AI, and agile transformation in the DACH region. As a subsidiary, codecentric cloud GmbH specifically supports companies in building, optimizing, and securely operating modern cloud infrastructures and managed services.