New AI economy // plenty of room for startups
Unique and useful data is a key for success // fine-tuned or RAGed AI models/agents
Microsoft and a16z view AI as a transformative innovation, comparable to the printing press and internet, with the power to address complex societal issues and reshape the economy. They advocate for collaboration across the AI ecosystem, emphasizing that both Big Tech and Little Tech play vital roles in fostering innovation and maintaining economic competitiveness. Their joint commitment focuses on policy choices that will determine the U.S.’s ability to sustain its history of innovation.
Their partnership promotes competition, open-source AI, and inclusive regulatory frameworks that support startups. Microsoft provides large-scale AI infrastructure, while a16z champions policies that level the playing field for small businesses. Together, they endorse regulatory and public policy approaches that encourage AI innovation without imposing unnecessary barriers.
Key policy goals include:
- Regulation that supports U.S. business growth: Policies should focus on promoting U.S. AI companies globally while avoiding excessive bureaucracy that hinders startups.
- Competition and choice: Developers should have access to a range of AI models, fostering broad-based innovation and enabling startups to choose platforms freely.
- Open-source innovation: Open-source models enable rapid development and customization, benefiting startups by expanding choice and enhancing safety through community scrutiny.
- Open Data Commons: Accessible data pools, supported by the government, will empower AI innovation.
- Right to learn: Copyright law should not limit AI’s use of data for learning and innovation, preserving the public’s access to knowledge.
- Government investment in AI: Increased government support will drive innovation, enhance security, and create economic opportunity.
- Workforce readiness: Policies should support digital literacy, workforce retraining, and skill development for an AI-driven economy.
Despite potential differences, both companies believe this collaboration can boost American innovation by leveraging both Big Tech’s resources and Little Tech’s agility. By working together, they hope to advance policies that enable U.S. leadership in AI and foster an inclusive, competitive AI economy.
