Matt Clifford CBE

Matt Clifford is a leader in AI policy, technology entrepreneurship, and innovation. He's advised two Prime Ministers on AI strategy, including acting as the Prime Minister’s representative at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit. He is also the author of the Government's AI Opportunities Action Plan. Matt continues to help shape national AI policy, as well as working with start-ups, investors and experts. As the co-founder and chair of Entrepreneur First, a pioneering start-up incubator, he has helped shape the tech entrepreneurship landscape.

The AI Safety Summit was an innovative event that drew together policy makers, academics and business leaders from around the world. Matt led negotiations with individuals and nations, managed attendees, and helped shape the event's agenda. Recognising the need for cooperation at all levels, the summit marked a first-of-its-kind effort to address AI safety at a global level, drawing participation from high-profile figures including Elon Musk, Sam Altman, Kamala Harris and Ursula von der Leyen, as well as representatives from China, the Middle East and Africa. As vice-chair of the advisory board for the UK AI Safety Institute, Matt continues to influence AI regulatory and governance policies. His work on the government's ‘AI Action Plan’ aimed to establish a strategic framework for AI development and regulation.

Matt is also Chair of ARIA (the Advanced Research and Invention Agency), the UK's research organisation focused on high-risk, high-reward scientific research. His work at ARIA emphasises the importance of a robust, connected R&D strategy to maintain the UK's competitive edge. ARIA provides Matt with a view of both public and private sector cooperation and priorities, connecting his government with with his role leading Entrepreneur First. This leading tech incubator has supported thousands of entrepreneurs, and has received backing from figures including Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn), John and Patrick Collison (Stripe), and Demis Hassabis (DeepMind). This has placed Matt at the heart of fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of tech leaders.

A respected voice and thought leader on AI's impact, governance, and ethics, Matt shares insights on the implications for productivity, employment, and regulation. From health to security to finance, he explores the challenges and more significantly the opportunities presented by AI, dispelling myths while emphasising the collaborative efforts needed between public and private sectors. His expertise also covers international perspectives on AI policy, analysing the differing approaches of the US, China, and Europe.

Considering the intersection of AI policy, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge research, Matt both explores and influences the future of technology. His roles and contributions underscore a commitment to advancing the tech sector and ensuring that developments have a positive and sustainable impact on society and the economy. Alongside AI, Matt explores entrepreneurship, business growth, and investment strategies. He co-authored the award-winning guide How To Be A Founder, that provides practical advice for building global businesses. He has written for Wired and City AM, and he has appeared on Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg and BBC Radio 4's Today.