Digital Isle of Man, an executive agency within the government’s Department for Enterprise, has set out its strategy to aid the long-term use and development of Artificial Intelligence in the island.

The three central planks of the strategy are:

A DfE spokesperson said: ‘In their 2024 Programme, Digital Isle of Man committed to accelerating initiatives in AI in 2024, aligned to the ambitions of the Island Plan, setting a target to achieve a 10% increase in GDP by 2030, driven by AI-enhanced productivity and innovation.

‘In line with these ambitions, initial funding has now been secured from the economic strategy board to further progress at pace this programme.

‘Part of these plans will incorporate collaboration with international AI leaders and jurisdictions and the recruitment of AI experts to support the development of a national AI strategy, and subsequently support its implementation.

‘Significant steps to progress the project have already been made, including the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AI Singapore, a national programme initiated by the national research fund.

‘This agreement marks a commitment to collaborate on AI-related activities that benefit both parties.

‘This partnership aims to enhance the island's AI capabilities through shared knowledge and learning.’

Digital Isle of Man say there will be an immediate focus on driving the initiative, aiming to maximise AI's potential to boost the island’s economic productivity.

This will be actioned through collaboration with businesses to educate, collaborate and support them to increase productivity through AI.

The plans include the establishment of a physical hub that will allow on-island businesses to have access to advice and guidance.

This service is expected to launch within the next three months. 

Lyle Wraxall, chief executive of Digital Isle of Man, said: ‘AI is not a new technology, but one which has dominated headlines and boardrooms over the past 18 months due to its increased accessibility. 

‘AI is a truly general-purpose technology of which the impact and potential has been recognised across all sectors and indeed our daily lives.

‘We believe the Isle of Man has an opportunity to capitalise on the potential of this technology to ensure we are maximising its ability to increase productivity across all sectors, contributing to positive economic growth over the long term, and developing a trusted environment with a focus on safety and governance.

‘One of the first steps to this project is the recruitment of a head of AI, a role which will be pivotal in ensuring we have the right expertise and knowledge to successfully develop and execute this strategy.’

The Digital Isle of Man announced a new Head of AI position last week.

Phil Adcock, chair of the Digital Isle of Man board added: ‘In the face of an ever-evolving landscape of global innovation, it's imperative that the Isle of Man not only remains abreast of these advancements, but also actively invests in understanding and capitalising on the opportunities presented by innovations. 

‘This directive is reinforced by the economic strategy, underscoring our commitment to securing a future that is both prosperous and sustainable.

‘This project is an example of this in practice, and I look forward to seeing it progress in the months ahead, confident in its potential to position the Isle of Man as a frontrunner in the global arena.’

More information regarding the Head of AI position is available here: https://www.jobtrain.co.uk/iomgovjobs/Job/JobDetail?JobId=18968