Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is changing business and society in ways that would have been unimaginable only a few years ago. Its full potential has yet to be realized—the way we gather information, make products, interact with businesses, and access products and services are all evolving. In emerging markets, AI offers an opportunity to reach the underserved by lowering costs and barriers to entry for entrepreneurs and businesses, creating innovative business models,
and leapfrogging traditional technologies. Private sector solutions lie at the heart of ending poverty and boosting shared prosperity, and AI is and will remain an integral part of that process. But much more can be done. This report explores the role of AI in emerging markets and developing
countries—both across and within key sectors—both today and in the future. It also examines the issue of gender bias, and how Big Data can advance, rather than impede, equality. If managed well, AI solutions will expand opportunities and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.