Philanthropic Group Pledges $500M to Guide Ethical AI Development

Philanthropic Group Commits $500M to Steer Ethical AI Development

Ten leading philanthropic foundations have united to pledge $500 million over the next five years to guide the ethical development of artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative, known as Humanity AI, aims to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in ways that benefit society and the environment, addressing growing concerns about the unintended consequences of rapid AI advancements.

The coalition, led by prominent organizations such as the MacArthur Foundation, Mellon Foundation, and Ford Foundation, seeks to empower communities and individuals in shaping the future of AI. By prioritizing democracy, education, and personal security, Humanity AI hopes to counter the trend of AI development being controlled by a small number of tech companies.

A Focus on Community Empowerment

John Palfrey, President of the MacArthur Foundation, emphasized the importance of community involvement in AI development. "Too often, AI feels like something imposed on us rather than something we collaborate on," he said. "Humanity AI is about ensuring that people have a say in how technology shapes their lives.".

The initiative will support projects that align with its mission to prioritize the well-being of people and the planet. This includes funding for initiatives in education, the arts, workforce development, and personal security. By focusing on these areas, Humanity AI aims to create a more inclusive and equitable future for AI technology.

Diverse Coalition of Supporters

The coalition behind Humanity AI is diverse, including organizations focused on humanities, inequality, and digital rights. The Mozilla Foundation, one of the partners, has long advocated for open and participatory technology. Its Executive Director, Nabiha Syed, highlighted the importance of shaping technology through collective imagination rather than top-down control.

"We envision a world where technology is open by design and driven by the needs and aspirations of people," Syed said. "This initiative is a step toward making that vision a reality.".

Building on Existing Efforts

Humanity AI is not the first initiative to address the societal implications of AI. Earlier this year, the Gates Foundation and Ballmer Group pledged $1 billion over 15 years to develop AI tools for public defenders, social workers, and others supporting vulnerable populations. This funding will complement Humanity AI's efforts by focusing on practical applications of AI for social good.

Humanity AI plans to expand its coalition in the coming year, coordinating grants and pooling funds with Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. This collaborative approach aims to maximize the impact of the $500 million commitment and ensure that resources are directed toward the most pressing challenges in AI development.

A Collective Force for Change

Michele L. Jawando, representing the Omidyar Network, underscored the urgency of guiding AI development in a direction that benefits humanity. "We are at a critical juncture," she said. "People, not algorithms, must shape the future of AI to ensure it enhances our lives rather than erodes our values.".

The Humanity AI initiative reflects a growing movement to steer AI development toward the common good. By bringing together diverse perspectives and significant financial resources, the coalition aims to influence the trajectory of AI in a way that prioritizes the needs of society and the environment.