America’s AI Action Plan is here, and it’s more than a government document. It shows that the next phase of AI isn’t only about massive data centers or sweeping policies. It’s about prioritizing innovation and development for small businesses, universities, and local communities that are ready to put AI to work.

This week’s Brief breaks that down.

Putting the AI Action Plan Into Practice

As you saw in the video, the AI Action Plan shows that the future of AI isn’t reserved for large tech companies, it’s opening up for small and medium-sized businesses and universities. If you’re unsure how to begin with such a broad policy document, then start with your immediate needs. For example, an easy place to start is by using AI to improve current workflows, such as having AI literacy programs that support training employees to use generative AI. For educators, you can begin designing real world training programs based on career and technical education, or CTE. CTE upskilling fills a massive gap that the AI Action Plan promotes with an immediate need that can be filled by colleges.

However, real progress will require keeping an eye on policy coordination. A new federal agency focused on AI is not just likely, it’s essential to make the AI Action Plan work and succeed.

What the AI Action Plan means for you is if you run a business, now’s the time to explore how to fit AI into your daily operations. If you don’t know where to start then begin with training on generative AI. If you’re in education, you must begin piloting CTE programs that are focused on AI upskilling to help students be ready for real, practical work using AI.

By taking these practical steps now, you’re positioning yourself to take advantage of the AI Action Plan now, instead of reacting to it later.