“Liverpool is well set to become a leader in responsible AI” according to the CEO of IBM UK and Ireland.
Dr Nicola Hodson, the keynote speaker at Liverpool’s first AI Summit also told delegates that they were in “one of the most transformational periods in human history” where “tech is moving faster than it ever has, but slower than it ever will.”
“It is clear we are moving from AI hype to AI reality,” she continued.
“AI is augmenting – not replacing – human intelligence.”
The event was hosted by multilingual interactive digital humans, as specialists in Artificial Intelligence discussed how it is being used to solve real-world challenges.
“We have a huge AI opportunity in the Liverpool City Region and beyond. The economic promise of AI continues to grow as adoption accelerates,” said Dr Hodson, who is also techUK Deputy President and a board member of the Department of Science, Industry and Technology.
“There is little doubt we are already in the age of AI. According to McKinsey, AI could add $4.4 trillion of value annually to global GDP by 2030. Just to put that into perspective, in just 6 years from now, the AI industry will be worth nearly double the value of the UK’s economic output of 2023.
“And the UK’s own AI industry is expected to grow to £800 billion by 2035, according to UK Government research.
“With a 20% growth rate, Liverpool is the fastest-growing city economy in the UK – and this area is well set to become a leader in responsible AI.”
She explained that IBM was working with the University of Liverpool to research AI, big data and High-Performance Computing.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram also signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the summit between the Combined Authority, the University of Liverpool and the UK’s Science and Technology Facilities Council.
This was to develop Meta Liverpool – using sources including high-resolution drone footage and transport models, to test the impact of policies before being they’re deployed.
“Today hasn’t just been about showcasing cutting-edge technology – it’s been about showing the world what the Liverpool City Region is all about: innovation with heart, technology with purpose and a vision of progress that leaves no one behind,” he explained.
“The Liverpool City Region has a knack for punching above its weight. It’s in our DNA. When I was growing up, this was a region known for its resilience and creativity.”
“We didn’t just follow trends; we set them. Today, we’re taking that same spirit into the digital age. But leadership comes with responsibility.
“As AI develops, we need to make sure it reflects our values of fairness, inclusivity, and sustainability. AI should empower people, not replace them. It should build trust, not breed suspicion. And it should create opportunities for everyone.
“Together, we will use those ideas to cement the Liverpool City Region as a global leader in ethical, impactful artificial intelligence.”
