Both the United States and Britain are stepping up their AI game, and both nations are setting their sights on building a homegrown rival to OpenAI. But can they really become AI superpower by 2030?
Hello and welcome to the AI Six Podcast, the show for marketers embracing the AI Age where I uncover how AI is shaping the future of marketing—and what it means for you.
AI is not just reshaping industries; it’s changing the geopolitical landscape as well. As countries position themselves to lead in AI, understanding the strategies they’re implementing is crucial.
In today’s episode, I’m looking at the US and Britain’s ambitious push to rival AI giants like OpenAI. With bold plans to expand infrastructure, foster innovation, and redefine regulations, this move could reshape the global AI landscape. But what does it take to create an AI superpower?
The Big Story
From Britain’s investment in infrastructure to the US government’s executive orders, AI is rapidly becoming a critical national asset. Let’s break down how these moves affect both the tech industry and marketing.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government is making waves with a bold AI strategy. The plan? Increase public sector computing capacity by twentyfold and lay the groundwork for sovereign AI innovation. Starmer announced this ambitious move during a visit to Bristol, following a report by British tech investor Matt Clifford on AI opportunities.
The strategy includes:
- Expanding UK-based data centres to support powerful AI models.
- Creating AI “growth zones” with relaxed planning permissions for infrastructure.
- Establishing an AI Energy Council to explore renewable energy solutions for data centres.
This push reflects a broader vision to ensure critical technologies are developed and maintained within Britain’s borders—sovereign AI for national security and economic growth.
The US Executive Order on AI
At the same time, the United States is taking decisive action to secure its position as the global AI leader. In January 2025, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order on AI, removing regulatory barriers put in place by the Biden administration. The order aims to enhance America’s AI dominance and bolster economic and national security.
Key points from the Executive Order:
- Revocation of the Biden AI Executive Order that imposed burdensome regulations on AI development, now replaced with policies to enhance private sector innovation.
- Promotion of AI innovation free from ideological bias or government restrictions, with a focus on human flourishing and economic competitiveness.
- Commitment to AI research and leadership, with the AI Action Plan set to steer future US policy in AI development.
- Strengthening the country’s AI framework for national security and fostering a competitive edge in global markets.
Trump’s order represents the US’s continued prioritisation of AI as a key technology, ensuring that its policies foster innovation and lead the world in AI research.
Key Insights
- AI Infrastructure & Sovereignty: Britain’s plan to create sovereign AI and scale up infrastructure like data centres means AI tools will become more accessible, driving further innovation in marketing automation and analytics.
- AI Energy Revolution
Tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are already investing in nuclear power for their data centres. Britain’s AI Energy Council could pave the way for similar innovations using nuclear and renewable energy. - Regulatory Flexibility
Post-Brexit, the UK is crafting its own regulatory path. While it promises oversight for AI, it aims to avoid the EU’s stringent AI Act, potentially positioning itself as an attractive destination for global AI investment. - US Leadership in AI: The US’s commitment to AI innovation through the Executive Order is likely to spur increased investment, improving AI capabilities for marketing professionals and opening new avenues for AI-powered tools and services.
Marketer’s Takeaway
Marketers, here’s why this matters:
- AI growth zones and data centre expansion mean more robust infrastructure for AI tools, which could enhance marketing automation and analytics.
- Sovereign AI models prioritise transparency and collaboration, values that resonate with ethical marketing strategies.
- Regulatory flexibility could make the UK a hotspot for AI-driven marketing solutions, providing a competitive edge.
I’ve linked the full UK Government 50-point AI Action plan and the US Executive Order on AI in the podcast associated with this podcast over at publicsectormarktingpros.com
Want to stay ahead in the AI Age? Dive deeper into the opportunities AI brings to marketing with my Professional Diploma in AI for Marketers or hire me to deliver an in-company AI workshop. Use the code AISIX10 for an exclusive podcast discount.
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About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
