Conclusion Designing national and regional AI strategies National or regional AI strategies can be effective tools for designing and implementing AI initiatives. They should also be endorsed at the highest level to demonstrate a commitment to long- term success. Achieving equitable access to AI necessitates a hybrid approach, combining a top-down approach to developing national and regional strategies with bottom-up initiatives that actively involve end users, individuals, communities, entrepreneurs, businesses and government administrations to uncover their needs. Strategies must tackle the most pressing local challenges. Their long-term impact must be considered from the outset. For example, while responsible AI and data governance frameworks are essential, their development must consider the potential local impact these may have on innovation and investment decisions. Adapting innovative solutions to the market While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to tackling these challenges, it can be effective to replicate existing successful solutions developed elsewhere. For example, regional frameworks for sharing AI infrastructure and energy can overcome national resource limitations, while DPI can improve the reach of a country’s digital and AI ecosystem for payments or for publishing open AI models. Centralized databanks offer an innovative way to create multilingual and inclusive local datasets to feed AI applications tailored to users’ needs. Public- private subsidies can widen access to low-cost AI-ready devices and encourage small businesses to implement AI-powered applications. Multistakeholder action at the global and national level Technological advancements are projected to remain driven by the private sector. As such, it will become increasingly important for innovative AI solutions to be more inclusive of their expanding global user base. The adoption of AI remains a significant challenge in many regions globally, especially within the small business sector. Collaboration between the private and public sectors can encourage entrepreneurs and small businesses to implement AI-powered applications through specific incentives and educational programs. Governments can prioritize strategic sectors such as health, education, finance, agriculture and energy by implementing supportive policies aimed at advancing AI innovation and enabling these sectors to act as engines of growth. Additionally, governments, educational institutions and industries can collaborate to offer skills training, workforce development, and continuous learning opportunities. This will ensure that individuals are equipped to adapt to the evolving impact of AI on the workplace. Academia and the education sectors are critical in cultivating the talent pool required to sustain the pace of innovation. Collaborations between the AI industry and various industrial sectors have the potential to uncover solutions to global challenges. Towards a regional dialogue The subsequent phase of this work will focus on implementing these recommended actions with active participation from regional stakeholders. Collective efforts will focus on assessing common challenges and proposing solutions aimed at developing or enhancing AI ecosystems. Blueprint for Intelligent Economies 16

A Blueprint for Intelligent Economies 2025