New York City unveils bold plan to lead global AI revolution

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New York City is positioning itself as the world’s leading hub for Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI) with a groundbreaking initiative announced by Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC).

The new report, New York City’s Artificial Intelligence Advantage: Driving Economic Growth and Technological Transformation, lays out an ambitious roadmap to harness AI’s potential for economic growth, workforce development, and technological leadership.

At the heart of the initiative is a $3 million investment to establish “NYC AI Nexus,” a first-of-its-kind program designed to bridge the gap between startups, businesses, and AI-driven solutions. NYCEDC also announced a strategic partnership with OpenAI, which recently opened its first East Coast office in Manhattan’s historic Puck Building. OpenAI will provide $500,000 in API credits to support NYCEDC programs, offer free ChatGPT Plus accounts for AI literacy initiatives, and serve on the city’s newly formed AI Advisory Council.

“The jobs of tomorrow are being created today in New York City, and artificial intelligence is key to making that happen,” said Mayor Adams. “The five boroughs are leaping at the opportunity to be the global leader in AI. From tech and the green economy to life sciences, the Big Apple—not Silicon Valley—is leading the way.”

First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer reinforced the city’s ambitions. “We have a vision and strategy to maintain our standing as the global leader in Applied AI,” she said. “Building on our unmatched tech ecosystem, vast academic network, and deep talent pool, New York City is poised to unlock the transformational potential of AI.”

The report identifies three key priorities: advancing the city’s leadership in AI, fostering new business partnerships, and developing a diverse AI-ready workforce. NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball highlighted the city’s existing advantages. “New York City’s premier talent pool, diverse economy, and strong access to capital are cementing its status as a global hub for Applied AI. We are thrilled to partner with pioneering companies like OpenAI to ensure that all New Yorkers can participate in and benefit from AI-driven growth.”

As part of its commitment, the city will launch several new initiatives, including an AI Advisory Council, AI literacy programs in public libraries, and an internship program connecting City University of New York (CUNY) students with AI-first startups. NYCEDC is also partnering with Tech:NYC to launch a global branding campaign promoting New York as the epicenter of AI innovation.

AI is already transforming key industries in the city, from life sciences to climate technology. The report notes that New York has more than 2,000 AI startups, and in 2023 alone, a third of venture capital raised by city startups was directed to AI companies. Over 40,000 workers in the metro area already have AI-related skills, and from 2018 to 2023, more than 87,000 students graduated with AI-ready degrees from the city’s top universities, including Columbia, NYU, and CUNY.

Key industry leaders praised the initiative. “This partnership is designed to support the mosaic that is New York City—from dynamic small businesses to the thriving tech ecosystem,” said Chris Lehane, vice president of global affairs at OpenAI.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. emphasized the importance of equitable access to AI opportunities. “We must leave no stone unturned in responsibly making New York City the global AI capital. My office is committed to connecting historically marginalized communities to the tech industry.”

Public institutions also expressed their support. The city’s three public library systems welcomed the AI literacy programs, acknowledging both the opportunities and challenges AI presents. “We recognize both the opportunities and risks, including bias and misinformation. We thank NYCEDC for their partnership,” they said in a joint statement.

With this initiative, the Adams administration continues its push to secure New York City’s economic future through technological innovation. From AI-driven job creation to strengthening AI education and accessibility, the city is laying the foundation to become the global capital for AI—a bold step into the future.