Microsoft and OpenAI have joined forces to launch the Societal Resilience Fund. With a commitment of $2 million, this initiative aims to bolster AI education and literacy among voters and vulnerable communities worldwide
As the global population gears up for democratic elections, estimated to involve two billion people, the need for tools and resources to navigate the complexities of the digital realm has never been more pressing. Recognizing this urgency, Microsoft and OpenAI have stepped up to provide support to organizations dedicated to fostering AI literacy and understanding.
Among the key beneficiaries of the Societal Resilience Fund are prominent organizations such as Older Adults Technology Services from AARP (OATS), the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), and Partnership on AI (PAI).
OATS, with its focus on educating American adults aged 50 and above, will develop comprehensive training programs tailored to this demographic. These programs will cover foundational aspects of AI, empowering older adults to both leverage technology for their benefit and safeguard themselves against potential misuse.
The C2PA, through its educational campaign, seeks to enhance awareness of content provenance and authenticity in the digital sphere. By elucidating current disclosure methods and best practices, the initiative aims to equip individuals with the knowledge needed to discern credible information from deceptive content.
International IDEA’s global training endeavors will target Electoral Management Bodies (EMBs), civil society, and media actors. Through these efforts, the organization aims to enhance awareness and understanding of AI’s impact on electoral processes, empowering stakeholders to navigate its challenges and opportunities effectively.
PAI, building on its Synthetic Media Framework, will continue its efforts to promote transparency and responsible AI development. By updating and refining the framework, the organization seeks to foster accountability in the creation and distribution of synthetic media, ensuring that AI advancements benefit society at large.
The launch of the Societal Resilience Fund underscores Microsoft and OpenAI’s unwavering commitment to addressing the pressing issues of AI literacy and education. In line with this commitment, the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) will convene a discussion involving key stakeholders from civil society and industry to explore future challenges and opportunities in this domain.
As Microsoft and OpenAI continue their collaborative efforts, they remain steadfast in their dedication to promoting AI literacy and resilience across societies. Through ongoing partnerships and initiatives, they aim to empower individuals and communities to navigate the evolving digital landscape with confidence and clarity.