Technology experts have expressed concerns about the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI). However, philanthropists, including established foundations and tech billionaires, have responded by increasing grants to address the potential harmful effects of AI and promote “ethical AI.”
Many of these philanthropic efforts are focused on using AI to predict climate disasters, discover life-saving drugs, and explore various positive outcomes. On the other hand, there are warnings that AI could disrupt white-collar professions, contribute to misinformation, and pose threats to national security.
Billionaires who have made their fortunes in technology are more likely to support projects and institutions that emphasize the positive impact of AI. For instance, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and his wife Wendy have committed hundreds of millions of dollars to artificial intelligence grant programs. Their foundation, Schmidt Futures, aims to “accelerate the next global scientific revolution” through AI research and applications in various fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The Patrick McGovern Foundation, established by the late billionaire founder of the International Data Group, is another prominent philanthropy focusing on AI and data science. The foundation has committed $40 million to help nonprofits use AI and data to protect the planet, foster economic prosperity, and ensure healthy communities. They also have an internal team of AI experts who assist nonprofits in utilizing AI to improve their programs.
Salesforce, a leading software company, has also announced that it will award $2 million to education, workforce, and climate organizations to promote the equitable and ethical use of trusted AI in their respective fields.
While many tech billionaires are enthusiastic about the potential of AI to improve humanity, there are also those who approach it more cautiously. The Omidyar Network, founded by eBay’s Pierre Omidyar, supports nonprofits using AI for scientific innovation while also advocating for data privacy and regulation.
On the other side of the spectrum, foundations like Ford, MacArthur, and Rockefeller are funding nonprofits that examine the harmful effects of AI. Computer scientists Timnit Gebru and Joy Buolamwini, who conducted influential research on bias in facial recognition technology, have received significant grants from these foundations. Gebru also launched the Distributed Artificial Intelligence Research Institute to study the harmful effects of AI on marginalized groups.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has been vocal about the potential dangers of AI and has donated to organizations like the Future of Life Institute, which aim to prevent existential risks associated with AI.
In conclusion, philanthropists are increasingly recognizing the need to address ethical concerns and potential risks associated with AI. Their grants are aimed at promoting positive outcomes, mitigating harm, and ensuring that AI is used for the benefit of humanity.
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