OpenAI and UK government form partnership to boost AI adoption

Investing.com -- OpenAI and the UK government have signed a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating artificial intelligence adoption across the country, supporting the goals of the UK’s AI Opportunities Action (WA:ACT) Plan.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and UK Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology Peter Kyle MP. The agreement focuses on unlocking economic and societal benefits through AI adoption in both public services and private sectors, infrastructure development, and technical information exchange.

The UK represents a top three global market for OpenAI’s paid subscribers and API developers. British enterprises already using OpenAI’s technology include Natwest, Virgin Atlantic, and UK unicorn Synthesia, as well as Oxford University.

"AI will be fundamental in driving the change we need to see across the country—whether that’s in fixing the NHS, breaking down barriers to opportunity or driving economic growth," said Kyle. "This partnership will see more of their work taking place in the UK, creating high-paid tech jobs, driving investment in infrastructure, and crucially giving our country agency over how this world-changing technology moves forward."

Altman emphasized AI’s potential as "a core technology for nation building that will transform economies and deliver growth," noting Britain’s "strong legacy of scientific leadership" and early recognition of AI’s potential.

The partnership will explore how advanced AI models can help civil servants work more efficiently and support small businesses navigating public services. It will also examine infrastructure priorities and expand collaboration with the UK AI Security Institute through a new technical information sharing program.

OpenAI, which opened its first international office in London in 2023, confirmed plans to increase its UK presence. The London team has grown to over 100 staff working in research, engineering, and market support functions. More details on expansion plans will be shared this summer.

The UK government has already implemented OpenAI technology in several initiatives, including an AI chatbot helping small businesses access GOV.UK information, "Humphrey" - an AI assistant for the civil service, and "Consult" - a tool that processes public consultation responses in minutes rather than weeks.

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