More than £220,000 has been allocated to develop the National AI Office model and strategy.
Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston revealed the breakdown of the £998,822 approved for the new office following a written question from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper.
The largest single allocation is £222,423 for the “development of the National AI Office model, governance, priorities, and delivery, with the production of a National AI strategy, including stakeholder engagement and research”.
A further £221,899 has been assigned for “delivery resource”, comprising three existing positions and one new specialist role to strengthen coordination with regulators on guidance and responsible AI use.
The budget also includes £200,000 for “workforce impact and skills foresight” to understand AI’s effect on the Island’s workforce and identify skills needs.
Other allocations cover international engagement (£25,476), on-island engagement and public access to information (£65,000), AI literacy and practical skills development (£120,794), and applied AI adoption for local organisations (£143,230).
Mr Johnston said: “A significant element of the funding is allocated to activity that supports the local community and economy and will be invested into working with local partners, including local engagement, training and skills development opportunities, applied AI adoption and analysis of the impacts of AI on the Island to inform the development of a delivery-ready National AI Strategy by the end of 2026.”
The minister noted the figures were indicative estimates which “may be further refined as delivery plans are confirmed”.