The UK is making a bold push to secure its place as a global leader in artificial intelligence, with Technology Secretary Peter Kyle visiting the United States to promote Britain’s growing AI investment.
As part of the government’s “Plan for Change,” Kyle’s visit aims to rekindle the historic UK-US special relationship, which has faced challenges in recent years. Speaking at NVIDIA’s annual conference in San Jose on March 20, Kyle laid out Britain’s ambitious strategy to reshape its economy around AI, positioning the country as a hub for global innovation.
In his address to business leaders, developers, and tech innovators, Kyle described how AI and advanced technologies can help solve some of the world’s toughest challenges. More importantly, he highlighted the UK’s plan to ensure that the benefits of AI-driven growth reach beyond established tech centers like London and Silicon Valley, unlocking opportunities for communities across the country.
AI is now central to the UK’s economic growth strategy. As Kyle explained, Britain is using AI to enhance public services and boost productivity—key elements of the government’s “Plan for Change.”
The UK’s AI sector is already valued at over $92 billion and is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2035. This impressive trajectory could make Britain the second-leading AI power among democratic nations, offering significant investment potential for American companies and global investors.
The UK government plans to create AI Growth Zones—special regions that will attract major AI investments. These zones will feature streamlined regulations, robust infrastructure, and access to power supplies, making it easier for businesses to build large-scale AI projects quickly.
Kyle described these zones as a chance to breathe new life into abandoned factories, old mining sites, and unused power stations. By transforming these relics of Britain’s industrial past, the UK hopes to create vibrant AI hubs that drive economic renewal and open doors for the next generation of tech talent.
“Our vision is clear,” Kyle is expected to say during the conference. “We want to turn the relics of economic eras past into AI Growth Zones. These areas will become the beating heart of Britain’s AI economy, supported by the state—not as a blocker, but as an agile, proactive partner.”
According to the UK government, these AI Growth Zones will play a vital role in raising living standards nationwide over the next four years. By attracting investment, creating jobs, and fostering a thriving business environment, the initiative aims to deliver on the government’s promise of widespread prosperity through AI-driven innovation.
Local leaders and industry players across the UK have already submitted proposals, showing strong demand for these zones. The government believes this eagerness reflects a growing national appetite for AI’s potential to revitalize communities and fuel economic growth.
During his US visit, Peter Kyle is also meeting with top tech firms, including OpenAI, Anthropic, NVIDIA, and Vantage, urging them to expand their presence in the UK. His pitch is clear—Britain is ready to become their “Silicon Valley home from home.”
“There’s real hunger for investment in Britain,” Kyle is expected to tell US leaders. “People are optimistic about AI’s future and what it means for their families. Governments must support that—not through heavy-handed directives, but through partnership.”
This shared focus on AI is already strengthening transatlantic ties. Just last month, the UK Prime Minister met with the US President at the White House to confirm that both nations are working on a new economic agreement centered on advanced technologies like AI.
Since launching its new AI strategy, the UK has already seen a wave of major investments from US tech giants eager to build AI hubs in Britain. A standout example is Vantage Data Centers’ £12 billion investment to expand the UK’s data infrastructure—a move expected to create around 11,500 jobs.
The UK has also formalized a partnership with Anthropic, which will explore ways to integrate AI into public services—another milestone in the government’s mission to use technology for the public good.
By strengthening these partnerships and removing barriers to innovation, the UK is setting the stage for sustained growth in its AI sector. With dedicated AI Growth Zones and strong backing from US tech leaders, Britain is signaling that it’s ready to lead the AI race—and create lasting opportunities for its citizens.
