New Alliance Forms to Steer Asian American Talent in AI's Future
A new coalition of entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and policy experts has launched the Asian American AI Alliance. The group will focus on getting Asian Americans, who represent over 57% of the U.S. tech workforce, to actively contribute to and guide the growth of artificial intelligence.
The project was started by the Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC). A kickoff summit is scheduled for January 13, 2026, in New York City to formally introduce the initiative.
From the Engine Room to the Boardroom
The name itself carries a specific message. "When we were considering what to name this group, we came upon the idea of 'AI Alliance', which is a standard size of paper used around the world, including in Asia Pacific," said John Wang, founder of AABDC. He sees it as a blank sheet for research and ideas from the community.
Wang continued, "AI Alliance paper is so commonly used in printers around the world that it is considered indispensable but is often invisible." The goal is to bring the talented Asian Americans who have been working behind the scenes in major AI companies into leadership positions where they can direct the future of human and AI interaction.
Three Pillars for Advancement
The Alliance will operate on three core principles:
- Education & Workforce Development
- Policy & Advocacy
- Industry & Business Innovation
A primary focus is on education and preparing the workforce for what's next. As AI integrates into every industry, educators and professionals need clear pathways for skill development. Staying ahead requires access to practical training, such as up-to-date AI courses that build relevant, in-demand skills.
The Team and the Mission
The project is guided by Rohan Thapar, an AABDC Board member and AI product specialist, and Anindo Dutta, an EY Partner. The founding members include professionals with experience at IBM, Accenture, PwC, Pfizer, and Genpact, along with several startup founders.
The U.S. is the current global leader in AI, with the market projected to grow from $66.4 billion in 2025 to over $319 billion by 2032. This growth underscores the importance of organized efforts to guide its development responsibly and effectively.
About AABDC
The Asian American Business Development Center, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1994, works to assist Asian American businesses in strengthening their operations and opportunities.
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