A new UK AI Council has opened its membership to people and organisations working across artificial intelligence, with a focus on building practical AI skills across Britain.
The independent not-for-profit organisation brings together AI users, developers, researchers, educators and industry leaders. Its goal is to help more people and organisations understand, adopt and use artificial intelligence effectively.
The launch comes as businesses and institutions across the UK look for ways to use AI while developing the skills needed to manage the technology responsibly.
Building practical AI skills
The council says the UK needs more than investment and national technology strategies to become an AI-capable country.
It argues that people also need practical skills. Businesses need workers who can use AI tools effectively. Educators need ways to prepare students for an AI-driven workplace. Leaders also need to understand how to introduce the technology responsibly.
Philip Blake, CEO of the organisation, said its focus is on helping people become competent in using AI rather than simply discussing its future impact.
The group plans to support members through training, events, certification and practical knowledge sharing.
Connecting businesses, researchers and educators
The organisation aims to bring different parts of the UK’s artificial intelligence ecosystem together.
Its membership is intended to include:
- Businesses using AI in their operations
- Developers and technology companies
- Researchers and academics
- Teachers and students
- Professionals working with AI strategy and implementation
As a result, the group hopes to create stronger connections between industry, academia, government and individuals.
It also plans to use insights from its membership to support better decisions around artificial intelligence.
Supporting responsible AI adoption
AI adoption is increasing across many areas of business and public life. However, organisations also face questions around governance, risk and responsible use.
The council says it will help members understand existing AI frameworks rather than create its own standards.
These include frameworks and approaches from NIST, ISO and the EU AI Act.
The organisation is not a government regulator. It also says it does not represent a single commercial interest.
Instead, its role is to help members understand established approaches and apply practical lessons from real-world AI use.
Membership opens to a wider AI community
Membership is now open to people and organisations at different stages of their AI journey.
The council says it wants to make participation accessible. Free entry points and academic partnerships will form part of that approach.
That could give students and people new to artificial intelligence a route into the wider AI community. At the same time, experienced professionals can share knowledge and practical experience.
The organisation also plans to offer an industry credential. However, it is not a regulated qualification.
First gathering planned in Manchester
The council’s first gathering is scheduled for 14 September 2026 in Manchester.
The event will bring together founding members and partners as the organisation begins building its wider community.
The launch comes at a time when AI skills are becoming increasingly important for UK employers. Businesses are exploring generative AI, automation and other technologies while workers are adapting to changing job requirements.
For the new organisation, the wider objective is to make practical AI knowledge more accessible across Britain.
What the launch means for the UK AI sector
The development highlights a growing focus on the skills needed to support artificial intelligence adoption.
Technology investment can provide infrastructure and tools. However, people still need the knowledge to use those tools effectively.
Therefore, training, education and practical experience are likely to remain important as AI becomes more common across workplaces.
The new membership organisation is positioning itself around that skills challenge, connecting people who build AI with those who use, teach, research and manage the technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UK AI Council?
The UK AI Council is an independent, not-for-profit membership organisation focused on developing practical artificial intelligence capability across Britain.
Who can join the organisation?
Its membership is aimed at AI users, developers, researchers, educators, students and leaders working with artificial intelligence.
Is the UK AI Council part of the UK Government?
No. The organisation says it is independent and is not a government department, regulator or public body.
Does it create AI standards?
No. It intends to help members understand established frameworks, including NIST, ISO and the EU AI Act.
Does it offer AI certification?
The organisation offers an industry credential. It is not a regulated qualification.
Why are AI skills important?
As more organisations adopt artificial intelligence, employees and business leaders need practical skills to use AI tools, understand their limitations and manage them responsibly.
When is the first gathering?
The organisation’s inaugural gathering is scheduled for 14 September 2026 in Manchester.
