Georgia’s Cloud Horizons: Transitioning Business Infrastructure for the Future

Cloud is reshaping industries worldwide, among telco services provided, cloud security and computing. And Georgia IT Sector is now facing the same crucial questions: Are businesses ready to embrace the cloud at scale? What hurdles stand in the way, and what opportunities can cloud for business in Georgia unlock?

As part of our ongoing partnership with Ultra Enterprise Solutions, Georgia, we at Aipix invited their team to join us in a new discussion series – Cloud Horizons Georgia. Together, we’re addressing the real problems and pain points businesses face when transitioning to the cloud, from infrastructure and regulation to skills and trust.

About Ultra Georgia

Based in Tbilisi, Ultra Enterprise Solutions is a leading system integrator working with enterprises, telecom operators, internet service providers, financial institutions, and the public sector. It provides IT infrastructure and cybersecurity and cloud transformation services to help organizations modernize their operations while maintaining innovation and compliance and security.

Our guest for this conversation is Salome Kvlividze, Product Manager at Ultra Enterprise Solutions, Georgia. She focuses on shaping cloud solutions that fit the realities of Georgian businesses, from migration strategies to compliance-focused infrastructure. Salome brings both technical insight and a local market perspective ongoing shift toward cloud adoption, including cloud security.

Intro

Anna: What trends are observed in Georgia in the field of transition to cloud technologies?

Salome: In Georgia, the shift to cloud technologies is steady and becoming more visible across sectors. The public sector is moving slowly but surely, particularly in areas like data management, supported by the rise of digital governance initiatives.

In industries such as finance and healthcare, the preference is for hybrid and private cloud models, where stronger security and compliance are critical. At the same time, small and medium-sized businesses are actively adopting public cloud services like Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud, using them for practical solutions such as accounting software, CRM systems, and collaboration tools.

Another notable trend is the arrival of global cloud providers into the Georgian market, offering localized services and Georgian-language support, which makes adoption easier for local businesses.

There is also a growing effort to close the skills gap: companies are encouraging IT specialists to pursue international certifications such as AWS Certified, Azure Administrator, or Google Cloud Architect.

And finally, cybersecurity is front and center. Organizations are increasingly looking for cloud environments that meet international standards like ISO and GDPR, ensuring their systems remain both modern and secure.

Anna:  Is the country’s IT infrastructure ready for the transition to the cloud for business in Georgia? 

Salome:  Strengths: Is Georgia’s IT infrastructure ready for the cloud? The short answer: it’s getting there. On the positive side, the country has widespread fiber-optic internet, reaching both cities and rural areas. There are modern data centers in place, and the tech talent pool is growing, especially in cloud and DevOps roles. But there are still challenges. The legal and regulatory framework around cloud usage is not always clear, especially for public and financial institutions. Major global providers like AWS and Azure are available. But they don’t yet have local data centers in Georgia, which affects data localization and speed.

And while progress is happening, many smaller businesses are still unsure about cloud adoption due to limited awareness or security concerns.

In short. Georgia is on the right path, but full cloud readiness will take a combined effort in infrastructure, regulation, education, and public awareness.

Anna: How are Georgian businesses currently transitioning to cloud technologies: gradually or all at once? Which industries are most actively moving to the cloud?

Salome: In Georgia, businesses are moving to the cloud gradually, influenced by budget, infrastructure, security, and staff skills. Many use a hybrid model keeping some systems in-house while shifting others like email and backups to the cloud. SMEs often start with Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, while large firms prefer private or hybrid clouds for security.

Industries leading this shift to cloud for business in Georgia include finance, retail, tech, education, and healthcare. Banks and fintech need data analytics and flexible infrastructure. Retail focuses on scalability customer behavior analytics, and integrated sales channels. Tech companies are often cloud-native. Education relies on cloud for online learning since the pandemic, and healthcare is beginning to adopt telemedicine and digital records.

Anna: Are there differences in approach between small, medium and large businesses, indeed in transition to cloud for business in Georgia?

Salome: In Georgia, small, medium, and large businesses take different paths to cloud adoption based on their resources and needs.

Small businesses start simple, using tools like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365 for email and document storage.

Medium companies have a more structured approach, mixing public cloud with on-site servers to move processes like CRM and backups to the cloud, focusing on cost and security.

Large companies use hybrid or private clouds with long-term plans, prioritizing security, compliance, and integrating legacy systems, banks and telecoms often rely on Azure or AWS.

Motivation for cloud transition

Anna: Why are companies choosing the cloud instead of hardware, because of cost savings, convenience, scalability, fault tolerance? Do companies consider reduced capital costs to be a key factor?

Salome: It comes down to a few key reasons: cost, flexibility, and reliability. First, cloud computing cuts down on upfront capital costs, no need to buy expensive servers. Instead, companies pay monthly for what they use, which is especially helpful for startups and growing businesses.

It’s also much more convenient: you can scale resources up or down instantly, access data from anywhere, and avoid the hassle of maintaining physical infrastructure. Plus, cloud providers offer built-in backup, disaster recovery, and high uptime, making systems more fault-tolerant than most in-house setups.

So yes, reduced capital costs are a big driver, but it’s the combination of cost savings, scalability, and convenience that really seals the deal.

Anna: How does the level of digital maturity of a business affect the pace of transition?

Salome: The more digitally mature a business is, the faster and smoother its transition to the cloud tends to be. Digitally mature companies usually have modern IT systems, skilled teams, and a clear digital strategy. So it makes cloud adoption a natural next step.

On the other hand, companies with low digital maturity often rely on legacy systems and may lack the internal expertise. All this makes the transition slower and more complex. They may need to modernize infrastructure or processes first, which adds time and cost.

So, in short: the higher the digital maturity, the faster the cloud journey.

Problems with transitioning to the cloud for businesses

Anna: What technical or organizational difficulties do companies most often encounter during the transition to the cloud for business in Georgia?

Salome: There are both technical and organizational hurdles. Technically, companies often struggle with migrating legacy systems, ensuring data security, and managing downtime during the move. Integration with existing tools can also be tricky.

On the organizational side, the big issues are lack of cloud skills, resistance to change, and poor planning. If leadership isn’t aligned or teams aren’t properly trained, the transition can stall or fail.

So overall, it’s not just about tech. It’s also about people, processes, and mindset.

Anna: What support measures could accelerate digital transformation in the country?

Salome: In Georgia, speeding up digital transformation will require a few key steps. First, the government can offer financial incentives, like tax breaks or co-funding for businesses investing in digital tools or cloud technologies.

Second, digital skills training is crucial. Expanding IT education and upskilling programs, especially in regions outside Tbilisi, can help close the talent gap. Several organizations in Georgia are actively working to support women in the IT sector through various programs. The Business and Technology University (BTU) has launched initiatives like the Techwomen Community and “500 Women in Tech” project, which aim to empower women with tech skills and career opportunities. Additionally, the “Women in Tech Georgia” chapter of the international organization Women in Tech focuses on educating, equipping, and empowering women and girls in STEAM fields. The World Bank also highlights the GENIE program, which supports women tech entrepreneurs and provides digital skills training.

We also need better internet infrastructure across the country to support cloud services, along with clear regulations on data protection and cybersecurity to build trust.

Finally, strong collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential, sharing resources, expertise, and setting national digital priorities.

So, it’s about combining policy, skills, infrastructure, and trust to move forward cloud for business in Georgia.

Infrastructure for the cloud operations

Anna: How developed is the internal Internet infrastructure in Georgia that is necessary for the productive implementation of cloud technologies (backbone channels, data centres)?

Salome: Georgia’s internet infrastructure is fairly advanced, especially for the region. The country has strong backbone fiber-optic networks that connect major cities and serve as a foundation for high-speed internet.

There are also several Tier III-level data centers operating locally, which support cloud services, hosting, and disaster recovery. Major ISPs like Silknet and MagtiCom have made big investments in both connectivity and infrastructure, and 5G is being rolled out, which will further boost access to cloud services.

So overall, Georgia has a solid digital backbone, but continued investment in both connectivity and local data centers will be key for scaling cloud adoption nationwide.

Anna: Are there any government or private initiatives to develop 5G and cloud ecosystems for business in Georgia?

Salome: Yes. Georgia’s making real progress on both fronts. On the government side, there’s a national broadband strategy and a program “Log-in Georgia” that’s expanding high-speed internet, especially in rural areas. This is key for both 5G and cloud access.

In 2023, the Communications Commission auctioned 5G spectrum, and now companies like MagtiCom, Silknet, and Cellfie Mobile are rolling out 5G networks, not just in cities but also in tourism hotspots like Gudauri and Bakuriani.

On the cloud side, the country is working on cloud-friendly regulations and improving cybersecurity frameworks, which helps build trust for businesses moving to the cloud.

Private investment is also growing. Big players like AWS are showing interest in the region, and GITA – Georgia’s tech agency, has funded over 200 startups, many of them cloud-based.

So between government policy, telecom investment, and startup support, Georgia is laying the foundation for a strong digital ecosystem powered by 5G and cloud technology.

Choosing a cloud provider 

Anna: Who do Georgian companies trust more: global providers (AWS, Azure, GCP) or local ones?

Salome: In Georgia, larger enterprises and international-facing businesses tend to trust global cloud providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. They value global providers for their reliability, security certifications, broad ecosystem, and performance.

For instance, a fintech startup working with international clients may choose AWS for its global reach and integration capabilities. On the other hand, local providers like Caucasus Online or UGT are often preferred by smaller businesses that want local-language support, Georgian billing, and closer technical assistance.

Anna: Are there any concerns about storing data abroad?

Salome: Yes, especially in sectors such as banking, government, and healthcare. The main concerns are data sovereignty and compliance with regulations such as Georgia’s Personal Data Protection Law. There’s often a fear of losing control over sensitive information or of being subject to foreign jurisdictions.

For example, a public agency might hesitate to host citizen data on servers located in Frankfurt or Dublin due to legal uncertainty and oversight concerns.

Anna: What are the advantages of local data centres? How actively are local data centres developing? 

Salome: Local data centres offer advantages like lower latency, Georgian-language technical support, local pricing, and compliance with local laws. They also ensure that data stays within national borders: a growing concern for both private and public sectors.

Local providers such as DataHouse or ProService are investing in infrastructure to meet increasing demand. However, they still lag behind global players in terms of automation, scalability, and advanced AI capabilities.

Anna: How important are hybrid cloud models for migration to cloud for business in Georgia?

Salome: Hybrid cloud models are very important in Georgia’s current context. They allow businesses to combine the control of on-premise infrastructure with the flexibility of the cloud. A common approach is keeping sensitive customer data locally while using the cloud for analytics, storage backups, or SaaS applications.

For example, a retail chain might store customer transaction data on a private server but use Microsoft Azure for business intelligence dashboards.

Data centre certification

Anna: Which data centres in Georgia are Uptime Institute certified (Tier I–IV)?

Salome: Currently, Georgia has very limited Uptime Institute-certified data centres. Some Tier II and Tier III-level facilities exist, but official certification is rare and not yet widespread.

For example, ProService claims Tier III-level capabilities, though not all providers seek formal certification due to cost or complexity. This remains an area for future investment.

Anastasiya: Are there plans to build new Tier III–IV centres in the coming years?

Anna: Yes, there are ambitions in the private sector to develop Tier III or Tier IV level centres, particularly as demand from fintech, telecom, and government clients increases. However, these projects are still in planning or early implementation stages.

There have been reports of international interest in Georgia as a regional hub due to its geographic location and energy cost advantages, which could eventually lead to higher-tier facilities.

Trust in the cloud

Anna: Do Georgian businesses trust traditional hardware-based IT infrastructure more?

Salome: Yes. Particularly older or more conservative companies. Physical infrastructure is often perceived as more “secure” simply because it’s tangible and under local control. Many IT departments are used to managing servers on-premise and are hesitant to switch to remote, cloud-based models.

A logistics company, for example, may continue to rely on in-house servers because it feels more confident knowing exactly where the data resides and who has access to it.

Anna: What risks are most often mentioned: security, control, legislation, access to data?

Salome: Security tops the list, followed by concerns about data access, legal compliance, and vendor lock-in. Businesses worry that cloud data could be hacked or mishandled, especially when using third-party providers based abroad.

A common fear is: “What if the provider goes offline or gets hacked, how do I recover my data?”

What steps could increase the level of trust: government regulation, successful case studies, availability of local support?

Trust can grow with a combination of clear regulation, successful local use cases, and better access to support.

VSaaS (Video Surveillance as a Service) and Cloud Security

Anna: How actively are companies currently switching to cloud video surveillance? And how much interest is there in Georgia in cloud video surveillance as a service?

Salome: Adoption is growing, especially among newer residential developments, retail chains, and warehouses. However, older organizations are slower to transition due to costs or concerns about bandwidth and storage.

For instance, a new business centre in Tbilisi might install IP cameras connected directly to the cloud, while an older factory may still rely on traditional DVR systems.

Anna: In which segment is this technology currently most in demand? And are there any plans to introduce cloud video surveillance to the market as a whole, taking into account demand?

Salome: The highest demand is in the commercial real estate, security services, and logistics sectors. As fibre-optic internet expands across Georgia and cloud costs decrease, we’re likely to see broader adoption.

Some local security firms are already offering VSaaS bundled with their existing services, this trend is expected to continue.

The future of Georgia Cloud Transition

Anna: Which cloud trends are gaining popularity in Georgia (e.g., hybrid clouds, edge computing)?

Salome: Hybrid cloud is the leading trend today. More companies are adopting it to balance control and flexibility. Edge computing is also emerging, especially in telecom and logistics, allowing for real-time data processing closer to users.

A telecom company, for example, might deploy edge nodes across Georgia to reduce latency for video streaming or voice services.

Anna: What trends and innovations do you think could influence the transition to cloud technologies in the country over the next 5-10 years? Are there any major cases of successful migration to the cloud in Georgia that others are looking to as examples?

Salome: Over the next 5 to 10 years, we’re likely to see several key trends shaping cloud adoption in Georgia. One major factor will be the increased use of AI and machine learning, which require scalable cloud infrastructure. As more businesses start using AI-powered tools from customer support chatbots to predictive analytics the demand for flexible, cloud-based solutions will grow.

Another trend is the expansion of edge computing and 5G networks. As these technologies mature locally, they’ll enable faster data processing and open new opportunities for sectors like smart agriculture, logistics, and even public services.

We also expect continued growth in hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, especially among larger enterprises and government institutions. These allow organizations to keep sensitive data on-premises while still benefiting from the flexibility of the cloud.

As for real-world examples, yes, there are a few standout cases of implementing cloud for business in Georgia. For instance, some major banks and telecom providers have already migrated significant parts of their infrastructure to the cloud. These companies are often viewed as pioneers in the local market, showing others that migration is not only possible, but beneficial, especially when it comes to cost optimization, cybersecurity, and operational agility.

Their success is setting a precedent and helping to build trust in the ecosystem, which is essential for broader adoption across other industries

Georgia’s cloud journey is no longer a question of if but how fast. The public sector shows a slow pace of digital governance adoption but SMEs quickly adopt SaaS solutions which indicates the market is moving toward cloud-first operations. The path forward faces multiple obstacles which include regulatory uncertainty together with skills training needs and cybersecurity threats. That’s why at Aipix, together with our partner Ultra Enterprise Solutions, are committed to helping businesses navigate this transition toward cloud security and cloud video surveillance with confidence.

Our solutions unite worldwide expertise with local market knowledge to deliver answers that tackle both technological needs and actual compliance and cost and trust requirements. The cloud serves as more than infrastructure. It establishes a base for Georgia’s digital economy to grow and become more resilient and innovative. Every business faces the essential decision: remain passive or take charge of transformation in the current business environment.

Aipix and Ultra Enterprise Solutions are ready to help you develop your cloud for business in Georgia strategy which will lead your business toward a more secure and scalable future-ready state.

Connect with us and take the first step toward a more secure, scalable, and future-ready business.