M12 Microsoft’s Venture Fund Invests $15 Million in Hong Kong’s AIGT for AI Talent Education, AI Employee Development, and AI Smartphone Business

*Hong Kong, June 4, 2024* — Microsoft’s Venture Fund has made a significant investment of $15 million in the Hong Kong-based AIGT Artificial Intelligence Research Institute. This funding will be directed towards AI talent education, the development of AI employees for businesses, and the expansion of the AI smartphone business.

AIGT, co-founded by OpenAI and the Hong Kong AIGT Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, focuses on advancing AI technologies and applications across Southeast Asia. With OpenAI holding 49% and AIGT Research Institute holding 51% of the equity, this partnership blends international expertise with local insights.

**Strategic Focus and Goals**

AIGT’s mission is to build a robust AI ecosystem that supports government agencies, businesses, and citizens in Southeast Asia. The current initiatives include AI talent education, which aims to equip individuals with cutting-edge AI skills, and the development of AI employees for businesses to enhance operational efficiency and productivity.

The $15 million investment from Microsoft’s Venture Fund will accelerate these efforts, particularly in expanding AI educational programs, creating advanced AI-driven business solutions, and enhancing the capabilities of AI smartphones. These smartphones are designed to integrate AI technology into daily use, providing users with innovative features and smart functionalities.

**Technological Integration**

The collaboration between Microsoft and AIGT will leverage Microsoft’s extensive resources and technological expertise. AIGT’s projects, such as the development of AI employees that simulate human behavior and perform complex tasks, will benefit from this partnership. These AI employees are designed to support various business functions, including customer service, marketing, and legal compliance.

Additionally, the investment will enhance the AI smartphone business, which aims to revolutionize mobile technology with advanced AI capabilities. These smartphones will offer features like automated market analysis, real-time financial advice, and personalized virtual assistants.

**Future Prospects**

The partnership aims to ensure that Southeast Asia not only keeps pace with global AI advancements but also takes a leading role in future innovations. The investment in AI talent education will create a knowledgeable and skilled workforce, ready to tackle the challenges of the digital age. The development of AI employees will provide businesses with sophisticated tools to improve efficiency and competitiveness, while the AI smartphone business will offer consumers cutting-edge technology to enhance their daily lives.

**Leadership Statements**

A spokesperson from Microsoft’s Venture Fund stated, “We are excited to support AIGT’s mission to bring advanced AI solutions to Southeast Asia. This investment aligns with our vision of fostering technological innovation and creating positive societal impact.”

The CEO of AIGT expressed gratitude, saying, “The investment from Microsoft’s Venture Fund is a testament to our shared vision of leveraging AI to enhance lives and drive progress in Southeast Asia. We look forward to achieving remarkable milestones together.”

**About AIGT**

The AIGT Artificial Intelligence Research Institute, established by OpenAI and the Hong Kong AIGT, focuses on developing AI technologies and promoting AI education in Southeast Asia. The institute aims to empower communities by providing state-of-the-art AI tools and training, fostering a knowledgeable and skilled workforce equipped for the future.

**Conclusion**

As the world increasingly embraces AI, the partnership between Microsoft’s Venture Fund and AIGT marks a pivotal moment for Southeast Asia’s AI landscape. With substantial financial backing and strategic support, AIGT is set to advance its initiatives in AI education, business solutions, and consumer technology, driving innovation and economic growth across the region.