California-based unicorn Scale AI has announced London as the location for its first international office.
Scale AI, which is in talks to raise investment at a valuation of nearly $13bn, provides labelled data for training AI tools. The company works with groups including OpenAI, Cohere and the US military.
Founded in 2016, Scale AI is now looking to expand beyond the US, with the upcoming London office operating as the group’s European headquarters.
The company hopes the expansion will create around fifty high-skilled jobs, with a mix of locally recruited staff and US specialists.
“The UK has long been a hotbed for technology, talent, and diverse ideas, which is why we’re proud to establish roots here,” said Alexandr Wang, founder and CEO of Scale AI.
“When I attended last year’s UK AI Safety Summit, it was clear that the country’s leaders and policymakers are engaging thoughtfully with the AI industry, and we look forward to our continued partnership to advance technological progress throughout the region.”
The UK government said it expects Scale AI, once it has found its footing in Europe, to replicate its partnerships with the US government in Britain.
Among its US government projects is providing the Army and Air Force with AI solutions for their intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance efforts.
“I’m delighted that Scale AI has chosen London for its European base. It’s another vote of confidence in the UK’s economy and status as a science superpower and we are determined to ensure AI helps deliver a brighter future for the next generation,” said Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
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