Hello and welcome back to Equity, a podcast about the business of startups, where we unpack the numbers and nuance behind the headlines. This is our Wednesday show, where we niche down to a single person, think about their work and unpack the rest.
Interview with Navrina Singh: Governance in AI
This week, Natasha interviewed a jack of all trades in the AI world with a focus on governance: Navrina Singh. Navrina is the founder and CEO of CredoAI, a governance platform helping organizations monitor, measure, and manage AI-introduced risks.
Navrina’s Journey into AI Governance
Navrina’s entrance into the world of AI was not a straightforward one. She began her journey in the early 2010s, working on projects related to data science and machine learning. As she delved deeper into the field, Navrina realized that the primary focus was on developing sophisticated algorithms rather than addressing the ethical implications of these technologies.
From Lonely Conversations to Global Focus
It wasn’t until a few years later, when governance started gaining traction as a global concern, that Navrina’s passion for AI governance truly began. The EU AI Act’s legislation, which aimed to establish guidelines for responsible AI development and deployment, marked a turning point in the industry.
Microsoft and the EU AI Act
Navrina’s experience working at Microsoft provided her with invaluable insights into the inner workings of large corporations and their approach to AI governance. As she watched the EU AI Act’s legislation come together, Navrina saw firsthand how critical it was for organizations to prioritize responsible AI development.
Regulation, Responsible AI, and Getting Over ‘AI Hypocrisy’
The conversation surrounding regulation and responsible AI is often shrouded in controversy. Critics argue that excessive regulation stifles innovation, while proponents contend that it ensures accountability. Navrina acknowledges the complexities of this issue but emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between regulatory frameworks and industry self-governance.
Casting Fear Aside as a Motivator for Change
Navrina’s approach to AI governance is centered on promoting fearlessness rather than fear-mongering. By focusing on building trust within organizations, she believes that we can create an environment where companies feel empowered to prioritize responsible AI development.
Recent Developments in AI
GPT-4’s launch and Microsoft’s ethical AI team layoffs have sparked intense debate within the industry. Navrina shares her thoughts on these developments and how they reflect a broader shift towards more accountable AI practices.
Regulation, Governance, and Industry Evolution
As we navigate the complexities of AI governance, it’s essential to recognize that this is not merely an issue of regulation but also one of industry evolution. Companies must adapt to changing regulatory landscapes while prioritizing responsible AI development.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, Navrina Singh’s journey into AI governance serves as a testament to her dedication to creating a more accountable and transparent industry. As we continue to explore the intersection of technology and ethics, it’s essential that we prioritize responsible AI development and acknowledge the critical role that governance plays in shaping this future.
Stay Tuned for More
Tune in next time for our weekly news roundup on Friday with Natasha, Alex, and Mary Ann as they break down the latest developments in the world of startups. Follow us on Twitter @EquityPod for live updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and more.
About Theresa Loconsolo
Theresa Loconsolo is an audio producer at TechCrunch, focusing on Equity, the network’s flagship podcast. Before joining TechCrunch in 2022, she was one of two producers at a four-station conglomerate where she wrote, recorded, voiced, and edited content, engineered live performances and interviews from guests like lovelytheband.
About Natasha Mascarenhas
Natasha Mascarenhas is a senior reporter at TechCrunch, covering early-stage startups and venture capital trends.
