The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has announced the launch of a $3 million project to advance the equitable use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for the benefit of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) as part of its Global Grant Challenges platform.

The Catalyzing Equitable Artificial Intelligence Use initiative was announced as a request for proposals (RFP) for using large language models, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT-4, to build an evidence base across the foundation’s program strategies that specifically target under-resourced communities in LMICs. The initiative will make three-month grants of $100,000 in support of projects to build tools that accelerate the pathway from evidence to policy development and implementation, enhance the quality and speed of communication, and improve resource allocation and support for frontline workers. Included among the initiative’s goals is achieving a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges related to the use of AI tools in LMICs.

Earlier this month, the Gates Foundation published an essay from its CEO, Mark Suzman, articulating the foundation’s approach to working with AI across its program strategies and integrating AI’s benefits into project outcomes, while navigating the challenges of adapting new technologies. Described as first principles, the framework includes adhering to core values, promoting co-design and inclusivity, proceeding responsibly, addressing privacy and security, building for equitable access, and ensuring transparency.

“Our approach to the use of AI technology is...grounded in the need to promote greater equity and opportunity for resource-poor communities,” wrote Suzman. “AI can be a useful tool in advancing these goals—if its downsides are properly managed.”

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