AI for Impact at Scale: Foundations, Business Models and Impact Pathways

Across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, AI is moving beyond early use cases into more mature, scalable applications that are beginning to demonstrate sustained impact across sectors.

Building on the case studies presented in AI for Impact at Scale: Case Studies from Innovators in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, this report examines what is enabling “AI for Impact” initiatives to scale. It highlights how innovators and ecosystem actors are addressing key constraints and opportunities, including context-rich data, localisation of AI models, mobile-first delivery channels, and evolving business models that support both scale and sustainability.

It also underscores the growing importance of partnerships and infrastructure, particularly the role of mobile network operators and other ecosystem enablers in expanding access and accelerating adoption.

Download the full report to explore the key lessons shaping how AI is developing and scaling in LMICs.