Artificial intelligence is already the present and future of the tech industry. Big companies have decided that implementing AI is the best way to advance more quickly. The US has always been one of the top names in this field, but China’s fast progress could leave it behind if something isn’t done soon. To avoid this, OpenAI urged the US government to promote funding for American AI projects, along with other measures.
More and more voices from the United States are asking the government for greater support for the local AI industry. Last week, Brad Smith, Microsoft’s vice chairman and president, warned about the pace of growth in the Chinese industry in terms of AI developments thanks to heavy government funding. This time, OpenAI, which is probably the most well-known AI company in the world, takes the same stance.
OpenAI wants more support and funding for the US AI industry to stay ahead of China
OpenAI shared a document called “Economic Blueprint” where it shows its vision for the development of artificial intelligence in the United States. The document mentions the need for state support to stay ahead of China. The company says the U.S. administration must act on certain key areas. “Chips, data and energy are the keys to winning A.I” reads the 15-page document.
In addition to government support, OpenAI urges the U.S. officials to attract foreign investment to local AI developments. “There’s an estimated $175 billion sitting in global funds awaiting investment in AI projects, and if the U.S. doesn’t attract those funds, they will flow to China-backed projects —strengthening the Chinese Communist Party’s global influence,” the company says.
OpenAI also proposes regulations to prevent key U.S. AI developments from “leaking out” of the country. The document says adversaries must be prevented from gaining access to certain AI-based technologies—including models—so they cannot misuse them. OpenAI will provide more details on its proposals at an event in Washington D.C. later this month.
OpenAI wants closer ties with the Trump administration
OpenAI is one of the firms that has been trying to forge ties with the incoming Trump administration. The new president-elect will take office in less than a week. David Sacks, a former PayPal executive, will lead the AI and cryptocurrencies segments in Trump’s cabinet. The industry hopes that the new administration will be friendlier to them and more proactive in defending local firms against external regulations, such as those from the EU. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, personally donated $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund.