2025 Annual Report

Introduction from the CEO

The Simon Institute’s 2025 was defined by rapid progress on agentic AI, the second Trump term, international dialogues on AI, and the adoption of two multilateral AI governance mechanisms. The necessity of international frameworks for AI has become undeniable. Simultaneously, the possibility of achieving them has moved further into the distance. SI actively bridged communication gaps, notably advising over 100 diplomats from dozens of countries on frontier AI, and supporting formal UN negotiations.

Further, we started opening spaces for informal diplomacy by translating frontier technical and governance developments between western and Chinese stakeholders. Recognizing the profound risks associated with frontier AI competition, we launched a dedicated workstream to mitigate tensions and build crisis preparedness capacity between great powers. By conducting multiple engagement trips and fostering relationships with Chinese and western stakeholders, SI successfully established its unique role as an impartial facilitator of exchange.

Internally, the year marked a period of consolidation and growth, advancing the organization’s maturity. We expanded our staff from six to nine, securing our capabilities in tech diplomacy. This expansion was underwritten by a $2.3 million funding round and culminated in the successful delivery of our 2023-2025 strategy, establishing a clear and ambitious new direction for the Institute. As AI research and development continue to advance rapidly into 2026 and beyond, we are acutely aware of, and motivated by, the scale of the opportunities and challenges this moment presents.

Our new strategic emphasis on frontier AI diplomacy will help ensure that the transition to a world with increasingly powerful AI systems is guided by principles of safety and benefit for all.

Maxime Stauffer
Chief Executive Officer