by Ian Khan | Oct 14, 2025 | Blog, Ian Khan Blog, Technology Blog
North America’s Tech Evolution: Silicon Valley’s Next Chapter and the Rise of Distributed Innovation
Meta Description: North America’s technology landscape is evolving beyond Silicon Valley with AI dominance, quantum computing breakthroughs, and distributed innovation hubs creating unprecedented opportunities.
Introduction
The North American technology ecosystem stands at a pivotal moment in its evolution. While Silicon Valley remains the global epicenter of technological innovation, a fundamental restructuring is underway that promises to reshape the continent’s digital future. Over the next decade, North America is positioned to maintain its leadership in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and next-generation connectivity while confronting significant challenges around regulation, talent shortages, and technological sovereignty. This transformation represents not just technological advancement but a complete reimagining of how innovation happens, where it occurs, and who drives it forward.
Regional Landscape
The North American technology sector demonstrates remarkable resilience and continued dominance despite global economic uncertainties. The United States accounts for approximately 48% of the global technology market, with Canada emerging as a significant player in artificial intelligence and quantum computing. What distinguishes the current landscape is the geographic diversification of innovation beyond traditional hubs. While California’s Silicon Valley continues to attract the largest share of venture capital, emerging tech ecosystems in cities like Austin, Toronto, Vancouver, and Miami are experiencing unprecedented growth rates exceeding 15% annually.
The United States maintains its position as the world’s largest single technology market, valued at over $2.1 trillion in 2024, with projections indicating steady 5-7% annual growth through 2030. Canada’s technology sector has grown to approximately $250 billion, with particular strength in artificial intelligence research and quantum computing infrastructure. Mexico’s burgeoning tech scene, while smaller at around $45 billion, shows remarkable 12% annual growth driven by nearshoring trends and digital transformation initiatives.
Key Trends
Artificial intelligence represents the most significant technological shift, with North American companies accounting for nearly 60% of global AI investment. The concentration of leading AI research institutions, including Stanford University, MIT, and the University of Toronto’s Vector Institute, creates a powerful innovation flywheel. Generative AI adoption is accelerating across enterprises, with 45% of large US companies implementing AI solutions in production environments, according to recent industry surveys.
Quantum computing is transitioning from theoretical research to practical applications. IBM’s quantum roadmap targets useful quantum advantage by 2026, while companies like D-Wave Systems in Canada and IonQ in the United States are making significant progress in quantum hardware and software development. The quantum ecosystem now includes over 200 specialized startups and significant corporate investment from technology giants including Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.
Next-generation connectivity infrastructure represents another critical trend. The United States has allocated over $42 billion through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program to bridge digital divides, while Canada’s Universal Broadband Fund continues expanding high-speed internet access to rural and remote communities. 5G deployment has reached 85% population coverage in urban centers, with early 6G research already underway at institutions including Northeastern University and the University of Texas at Austin.
Leading Players
The established technology giants continue to dominate the landscape but face increasing competition from specialized innovators. Microsoft’s strategic pivot toward AI-first platforms, particularly through its partnership with OpenAI and integration of Copilot across its product ecosystem, demonstrates the company’s adaptation to the new technological paradigm. Apple’s continued innovation in consumer hardware and emerging focus on spatial computing with Vision Pro positions the company at the intersection of multiple technological trends.
NVIDIA has emerged as perhaps the most significant beneficiary of the AI revolution, with its market capitalization surpassing $2 trillion driven by demand for AI accelerators. The company’s CUDA platform and comprehensive AI software stack create powerful ecosystem advantages that extend beyond hardware into complete AI solutions.
In Canada, companies like Shopify demonstrate global leadership in e-commerce technology, while AI research labs including Element AI (acquired by ServiceNow) and Cohere continue pushing boundaries in machine learning applications. Mexico’s technology landscape features growing success stories like Kavak in automotive e-commerce and Clara in enterprise fintech, representing the maturation of Latin American technology entrepreneurship.
Government Initiatives
Policy and regulatory frameworks are evolving rapidly to address technological challenges and opportunities. The United States CHIPS and Science Act represents one of the most significant industrial policy initiatives in decades, allocating $52 billion to revitalize domestic semiconductor manufacturing. Early results include announced investments exceeding $200 billion in new semiconductor fabrication facilities from companies including Intel, TSMC, and Samsung.
Canada’s Global Skills Strategy and Startup Visa Program continue attracting international talent, while the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy positions the country as a global AI research hub. Mexico’s recent technology modernization initiatives focus on expanding digital infrastructure and promoting technology adoption among small and medium enterprises.
Regulatory attention has intensified around artificial intelligence, data privacy, and competition policy. The United States AI Executive Order establishes frameworks for AI safety and security, while ongoing antitrust cases against major technology companies could reshape market dynamics. California’s privacy regulations continue influencing national standards, with comprehensive federal privacy legislation remaining under active consideration.
Investment & Growth
Venture capital investment patterns reveal important shifts in the innovation landscape. While total venture funding moderated from 2021 peaks, the distribution across stages and sectors demonstrates maturation. Artificial intelligence and machine learning companies attracted over $35 billion in North American venture funding in 2023, representing approximately 25% of total venture investment. Enterprise software, fintech, and climate technology also maintained strong investment momentum.
The geographic distribution of venture capital continues evolving beyond traditional hubs. While Silicon Valley remains dominant, emerging ecosystems including Miami, Atlanta, and Denver experienced funding growth exceeding the national average. Canadian technology companies raised over $8 billion in 2023, with Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal establishing themselves as globally significant technology centers.
Corporate venture capital has become increasingly important, with companies like Google Ventures, Salesforce Ventures, and Intel Capital deploying significant capital alongside strategic partnerships. The growing sophistication of late-stage funding options, including crossover funds and public market alternatives, provides technology companies with more pathways to sustainable growth.
Challenges & Opportunities
The North American technology sector faces several critical challenges that will shape its evolution. Talent shortages remain acute, particularly in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and quantum computing. Immigration policy constraints limit access to global talent, while domestic education systems struggle to produce sufficient qualified graduates. The concentration of opportunity in specific geographic regions creates affordability challenges and limits diversity in technology workforce development.
Regulatory fragmentation presents another significant challenge. The absence of comprehensive federal privacy legislation creates compliance complexity, while differing state-level approaches to AI regulation risk creating a patchwork of requirements. International regulatory divergence, particularly between US and EU approaches to technology governance, creates additional complications for global operations.
Despite these challenges, unprecedented opportunities exist across multiple domains. The energy transition represents a $3-5 trillion opportunity over the next decade, with technologies including grid modernization, renewable energy optimization, and carbon capture attracting significant investment. Healthcare technology innovation, accelerated by pandemic-era digital adoption, continues transforming care delivery and pharmaceutical development. The spatial computing ecosystem, while still emerging, promises to redefine human-computer interaction across consumer and enterprise applications.
Global Connections
North America’s technology leadership remains deeply interconnected with global ecosystems. The region’s companies continue to derive significant revenue from international markets, with approximately 40% of US technology company revenue originating outside domestic markets. Supply chain dependencies, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing and critical minerals, create both vulnerabilities and opportunities for international partnership.
The competitive landscape is evolving rapidly, with Chinese technology companies achieving significant advances in specific domains including electric vehicles, telecommunications equipment, and consumer electronics. European strengths in privacy-preserving technologies, green technology, and industrial automation complement North American capabilities, creating opportunities for strategic collaboration.
The globalization of talent continues, with North American technology companies maintaining significant research and development operations in key international innovation hubs. This distributed innovation model leverages global expertise while navigating increasing geopolitical complexities and technology sovereignty concerns.
Conclusion
The North American technology ecosystem stands at the beginning of its most transformative decade. The convergence of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and clean energy technologies creates unprecedented opportunities for innovation and value creation. Success will require navigating complex regulatory environments, addressing talent shortages, and maintaining global competitiveness amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Over the next 5-10 years, we can expect to see several defining developments. Artificial intelligence will become pervasive across all sectors, driving productivity transformations that could add $4-6 trillion annually to the North American economy. Quantum computing will transition from research laboratories to practical applications in materials science, drug discovery, and optimization problems. The geography of innovation will continue decentralizing, with 8-10 additional cities emerging as significant technology hubs alongside traditional centers.
For global businesses and investors, North America represents both a critical market and innovation partner. The region’s combination of research excellence, entrepreneurial energy, and capital markets sophistication creates unique advantages. Organizations that develop Future Readiness by understanding these regional dynamics, building strategic partnerships, and adapting to evolving technological paradigms will be best positioned to thrive in the coming transformation.
About Ian Khan
Ian Khan is a globally recognized futurist, bestselling author, and leading expert on Future Readiness and technology adoption. His groundbreaking work helps organizations worldwide navigate digital transformation and technological disruption. As the creator of the Amazon Prime series The Futurist, Ian has established himself as one of the most accessible and authoritative voices on how technology shapes our future across global regions.
Ian’s recognition on the prestigious Thinkers50 Radar list places him among the world’s most influential management thinkers. His expertise spans artificial intelligence, blockchain, smart cities, and Industry 4.0 technologies, with deep knowledge of how these trends manifest differently across North American, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern markets. Having worked with Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and industry associations across six continents, Ian brings unparalleled insight into regional technology ecosystems and their global interconnections.
Contact Ian Khan today to transform your organization’s approach to technological change. Whether you need an inspiring keynote on North American technology trends, a Future Readiness workshop tailored to your industry context, strategic consulting on global expansion, or international technology advisory services, Ian provides the strategic foresight and practical guidance needed to thrive in an era of rapid technological transformation.
by Ian Khan | Oct 14, 2025 | Blog, Ian Khan Blog, Technology Blog
Hook
In a world where our smartphones have become extensions of our limbs, Samsung’s latest move feels less like an upgrade and more like a declaration of war on dead zones. Just when you thought foldables were settling into a predictable groove of bigger screens and faster chips, the tech giant drops the W26—a luxurious version of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 that boasts satellite connectivity. It’s as if Samsung looked at our collective anxiety over dropped calls and said, ‘Hold my beer.’ But beyond the glitz of premium design and space-age features, this isn’t just another gadget launch; it’s a harbinger of a future where connectivity isn’t a luxury but a lifeline. As a futurist, I can’t help but chuckle at how this seemingly niche innovation could ripple across industries, from healthcare to disaster response, forcing us to rethink what ‘always on’ really means. So, grab your foldable—if you can afford it—and let’s dive into why this satellite-enabled phone is more than just a status symbol; it’s a critical step toward a hyper-connected world that’s both thrilling and terrifying.
The Story
On October 13, 2025, Samsung unveiled the W26, a high-end variant of its Galaxy Z Fold 7, through a splashy announcement covered by Android Authority. This isn’t your average foldable refresh; it’s packed with satellite connectivity, allowing users to make calls and send messages even in remote areas without cellular coverage, alongside a sleeker, more luxurious design that likely comes with a price tag to match. For context, Samsung has been battling competitors like Apple and Huawei in the foldable market, which is projected to grow by over 30% annually, according to IDC data. The timing is strategic, as global events—from natural disasters to rural digital divides—have highlighted the fragility of traditional networks. Key players include Samsung’s R&D teams, telecom partners scrambling to integrate satellite tech, and consumers who’ve long clamored for reliability over mere specs. Meanwhile, in a twist of irony, Microsoft is fending off rumors about Xbox’s demise, as reported by Windows Central, but that’s a distraction from the real story: Samsung’s push into satellite connectivity isn’t just a feature add; it’s a calculated bet on a future where boundaries between earth and orbit blur.
Critical Analysis
Let’s dissect this with the precision of a surgeon and the wit of a stand-up comic. First, the multiple perspectives: Samsung sees this as a differentiator in a crowded market, potentially boosting its market share in the premium segment, which accounts for nearly 40% of smartphone profits globally. Consumers, especially adventurers and professionals in isolated regions, might cheer this as a game-changer—imagine a hiker in the Andes sending an SOS via satellite instead of praying for a signal. But critics argue it’s elitist; with luxury pricing, it could widen the digital divide, leaving the masses behind. Then there’s the telecom industry: winners like satellite providers (think SpaceX’s Starlink) gain a new revenue stream, while losers might include traditional carriers fearing obsolescence if direct-to-device tech takes off. Hidden implications? This accelerates the Internet of Things (IoT), where everything from cars to farm equipment could leverage satellite links, but it also raises privacy concerns—who’s tracking your location when you’re off-grid?
From a business impact analysis, Samsung’s move could drive a 15-20% uptick in foldable sales in the short term, per Counterpoint Research estimates, but the long-term play is about ecosystem control. By embedding satellite connectivity, they’re not just selling phones; they’re locking users into a broader suite of services, from cloud storage to AI assistants. Future readiness considerations are stark: organizations that ignore this shift risk being left in the digital dust. For instance, emergency services could integrate such devices for disaster response, but if they don’t adapt, they’ll face criticism for inefficiency. My unique futurist perspective? We’re witnessing the early stages of the ‘Connectivity Revolution,’ where exponential technologies like 5G-advanced and low-earth orbit satellites converge. This isn’t just about better phones; it’s about redefining human resilience. Remember, in the 1990s, the internet seemed like a niche toy—now it’s the backbone of society. Satellite-enabled devices could do the same, but only if we address equity and security head-on.
Forward-Looking Conclusion
So, what does this mean for the future? Samsung’s W26 is a bellwether for a world where connectivity becomes as essential as oxygen. In the next decade, expect satellite tech to trickle down to mid-range devices, making remote work and global collaboration seamless. But with great power comes great responsibility: regulators must ensure fair access, and businesses should invest in hybrid networks that blend terrestrial and orbital systems. For leaders, this is a call to action—embrace Future Readiness by upskilling teams on emerging tech and forging partnerships with satellite innovators. Don’t wait for the crisis; prepare now. As for consumers, demand more than just shiny gadgets; push for affordability and ethics. In the end, Samsung’s foldable isn’t just a phone; it’s a prototype for a connected humanity. Let’s build that future wisely, or risk it building us.
About Ian Khan
Ian Khan is a globally recognized futurist, bestselling author, and the creator of the Amazon Prime series ‘The Futurist,’ which explores how technology shapes our world. Honored with the Thinkers50 Radar Award for his influential insights, he has dedicated his career to helping organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation and emerging technologies. His expertise in Future Readiness—a framework for thriving in an era of exponential change—makes him a sought-after voice for decoding trends like satellite connectivity and its impact on business and society. With a track record of empowering leaders through keynote speeches and workshops, Ian connects the dots between innovation and practical strategy, ensuring that companies don’t just adapt but lead in the digital age.
Ready to future-proof your organization? Contact Ian Khan today for keynote speaking opportunities, Future Readiness workshops, and strategic consulting on digital transformation and breakthrough technologies. Whether virtual or in-person, his sessions equip you with the tools to turn disruption into opportunity. Don’t get left behind—embrace the future with confidence.
by Ian Khan | Oct 14, 2025 | Blog, Ian Khan Blog, Technology Blog
The EU AI Act: How Europe’s Landmark AI Regulation Will Transform Global Business Operations by 2027
Meta Description: The EU AI Act establishes the world’s first comprehensive AI regulatory framework. Learn how this landmark legislation will impact your organization’s AI strategy and compliance requirements.
Introduction
The European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act represents the most significant regulatory development in artificial intelligence governance to date. As the world’s first comprehensive legal framework for AI, this landmark legislation will establish global standards for AI development, deployment, and oversight. For business leaders across all sectors, understanding the EU AI Act is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative that will shape AI investment decisions, innovation pathways, and competitive positioning for the next decade.
The EU AI Act follows the trailblazing path of the GDPR, extending Europe’s influence in setting global technology standards. With political agreement reached in December 2023 and formal adoption expected in 2024, organizations have a limited window to prepare for compliance deadlines that will begin taking effect in 2025. This analysis examines what the EU AI Act means for businesses operating in or connected to the European market, the compliance requirements across different risk categories, and how forward-thinking organizations can turn regulatory compliance into competitive advantage.
Policy Overview: Understanding the EU AI Act Framework
The EU AI Act adopts a risk-based approach to artificial intelligence regulation, categorizing AI systems into four distinct risk levels with corresponding regulatory requirements. This framework represents a comprehensive attempt to balance innovation with fundamental rights protection and safety assurance.
At the foundation of the regulation are prohibited AI practices—systems considered unacceptable due to their potential for harm. These include AI used for social scoring by public authorities, real-time remote biometric identification in publicly accessible spaces for law enforcement purposes (with limited exceptions), and AI that deploys subliminal techniques to manipulate behavior.
High-risk AI systems form the core of the regulatory framework, encompassing AI used in critical infrastructure, educational and vocational training, employment and workforce management, essential private and public services, law enforcement, migration and border control, and administration of justice. These systems face stringent requirements including risk assessment and mitigation systems, high-quality datasets, detailed documentation and traceability, human oversight, and high levels of accuracy, robustness, and cybersecurity.
Limited risk AI systems, primarily those involving human interaction like chatbots and emotion recognition systems, face transparency obligations. Users must be informed they are interacting with AI systems, and emotion recognition systems must notify individuals when they are being analyzed.
Minimal risk AI systems, which constitute the majority of AI applications currently in use, face no additional regulatory requirements beyond existing legislation. This includes AI-powered recommendation systems, spam filters, and most consumer AI applications.
The regulation establishes a European Artificial Intelligence Board to facilitate implementation and creates a database for high-risk AI systems operated by the European Commission. Market surveillance authorities in member states will enforce the regulation, with penalties reaching up to €35 million or 7% of global annual turnover for violations involving prohibited AI practices.
Business Impact: Navigating the New AI Compliance Landscape
The EU AI Act will fundamentally reshape how organizations develop, procure, and deploy artificial intelligence systems. The business impact extends far beyond compliance departments, touching every aspect of organizational operations from technology strategy to risk management.
For technology companies developing AI systems, the Act creates significant new obligations around documentation, testing, and quality assurance. AI providers must establish comprehensive technical documentation, implement quality management systems, and conduct conformity assessments before placing high-risk AI systems on the market. This represents a substantial shift from the current largely unregulated environment to a structured compliance regime similar to medical devices or aviation safety.
Organizations deploying high-risk AI systems face equally significant responsibilities. Users of high-risk AI must conduct fundamental rights impact assessments, ensure human oversight, monitor system operation, and maintain use logs. In employment contexts, this means HR departments using AI for recruitment, promotion, or termination decisions must implement robust governance frameworks and documentation practices.
The extraterritorial reach of the EU AI Act mirrors that of the GDPR, meaning organizations outside Europe that deploy AI systems affecting EU citizens will need to comply. This global impact ensures the EU AI Act will become a de facto standard for multinational corporations, similar to how GDPR compliance became the global benchmark for data protection.
Small and medium enterprises face particular challenges, as the compliance burden may disproportionately affect organizations with limited legal and technical resources. The Act includes some provisions to support SMEs, including regulatory sandboxes and simplified documentation requirements, but the fundamental compliance obligations remain substantial.
Compliance Requirements: What Organizations Must Implement
Meeting EU AI Act requirements demands a systematic approach to AI governance and risk management. Organizations must begin preparing now for compliance deadlines that will phase in starting in 2025.
For prohibited AI practices, organizations must conduct immediate inventories of existing AI systems to identify any applications that fall into banned categories. This requires careful analysis of AI use cases against the specific prohibitions outlined in the Act, particularly around manipulative AI, social scoring, and certain biometric identification applications.
High-risk AI systems demand the most comprehensive compliance framework. Organizations must establish quality management systems specifically tailored to AI development and deployment. These systems must include procedures for technical documentation, data governance, record-keeping, transparency to users, human oversight, accuracy, robustness, and cybersecurity.
Conformity assessment procedures represent a critical compliance milestone. For most high-risk AI systems, providers must undergo internal checks against the requirements before affixing the CE marking. For certain higher-risk categories, involvement of notified bodies may be required. This represents a significant departure from current practices where AI systems are typically deployed without third-party validation.
Transparency obligations apply to limited-risk AI systems, requiring clear communication to users when they are interacting with AI. This includes chatbots, emotion recognition systems, and AI-generated content. Organizations must implement technical and process solutions to ensure these disclosures occur consistently and effectively.
Post-market monitoring systems must be established to continuously assess AI system performance and identify emerging risks. This includes incident reporting mechanisms and, for significant incidents, immediate notification to national authorities. Organizations must maintain detailed logs of system operations to facilitate monitoring and investigation.
Future Implications: The Regulatory Evolution of AI Governance
The EU AI Act represents not an endpoint but a starting point for AI regulation globally. Looking 5-10 years ahead, we can anticipate several key developments in the regulatory landscape for artificial intelligence.
By 2027, we expect to see the emergence of global AI regulatory standards, likely building upon the EU framework. International organizations including the OECD, ISO, and IEC are already developing AI standards that will complement regulatory requirements. Organizations should anticipate a convergence toward common international standards similar to what occurred with data protection following GDPR.
Between 2028-2030, we predict the development of sector-specific AI regulations addressing unique risks in healthcare, financial services, transportation, and other high-impact domains. These specialized frameworks will layer additional requirements on top of the foundational EU AI Act, creating a more complex but targeted regulatory environment.
AI liability frameworks will evolve substantially over the next decade. The EU is already developing AI liability directives that will clarify responsibility when AI systems cause harm. This will likely include presumptions of fault for certain high-risk AI applications and specific rules for proving causality in AI-related incidents.
Certification and auditing ecosystems will mature significantly, with specialized firms emerging to provide third-party validation of AI system compliance. Similar to financial auditing or cybersecurity certification, AI compliance auditing will become a standard business practice for organizations deploying high-risk AI systems.
Global regulatory fragmentation remains a significant risk, with different jurisdictions potentially adopting conflicting approaches to AI governance. The United States is pursuing a more sectoral approach, China has focused on algorithmic recommendation regulation, and other regions may develop their own frameworks. Multinational organizations must prepare for potential regulatory divergence.
Strategic Recommendations: Building Future-Ready AI Governance
Organizations cannot afford to wait for the final implementation deadlines to begin preparing for the EU AI Act. Forward-thinking leaders should take immediate action to position their organizations for success in the new regulatory environment.
Conduct a comprehensive AI inventory across all business units and functions. Identify every AI system in development or deployment, categorize them according to the EU AI Act risk framework, and prioritize high-risk systems for immediate attention. This foundational step provides visibility into the scope of compliance requirements.
Establish an AI governance framework with clear accountability and oversight. Appoint senior leadership responsible for AI compliance, create cross-functional AI governance committees, and develop policies and procedures aligned with regulatory requirements. This governance structure should integrate with existing risk management and compliance functions.
Invest in AI documentation and transparency capabilities. High-risk AI systems require comprehensive technical documentation, including system specifications, data characteristics, training methodologies, and performance metrics. Organizations should implement systems to manage this documentation throughout the AI lifecycle.
Develop human oversight mechanisms for high-risk AI applications. The EU AI Act requires meaningful human intervention capabilities for high-risk systems. Organizations must design processes that enable human reviewers to understand AI outputs, override decisions, and provide effective oversight.
Create AI impact assessment procedures that evaluate fundamental rights risks before deploying high-risk AI systems. These assessments should identify potential impacts on privacy, non-discrimination, consumer protection, and other protected rights, with mitigation measures integrated into system design.
Build relationships with regulatory authorities and industry standards bodies. Early engagement with relevant agencies provides valuable insight into regulatory expectations and demonstrates commitment to compliance. Participation in standards development helps shape future requirements.
Balance compliance with innovation by viewing regulatory requirements as design constraints rather than barriers. The most successful organizations will integrate compliance into their AI development lifecycle from the outset, creating systems that are both innovative and compliant by design.
Conclusion
The EU AI Act represents a watershed moment in the governance of artificial intelligence, establishing a comprehensive framework that will influence global standards for years to come. Organizations that approach this regulation proactively can turn compliance into competitive advantage, building trust with customers, partners, and regulators while minimizing legal and reputational risks.
The transition to regulated AI will require significant investment in governance, documentation, and risk management, but these investments will pay dividends in more robust, trustworthy, and sustainable AI systems. As with previous technological transformations, the organizations that embrace responsible innovation will emerge as leaders in the AI-enabled economy.
The timeline for compliance is compressed, with requirements phasing in starting just months after formal adoption. Business leaders must begin their preparation immediately, building the organizational capabilities needed to thrive in the new era of AI governance. The future belongs to organizations that can balance innovation with responsibility, creating AI systems that deliver value while respecting fundamental rights and societal values.
About Ian Khan
Ian Khan is a globally recognized futurist, bestselling author, and leading expert on technology policy and digital governance. His groundbreaking work on Future Readiness has established him as one of the world’s most influential voices on how organizations can navigate technological change while maintaining regulatory compliance and ethical standards. As the creator of the Amazon Prime series “The Futurist,” Ian has brought complex technological concepts to mainstream audiences, demystifying emerging technologies and their implications for business and society.
Ian’s expertise in technology policy and regulatory strategy has earned him recognition on the prestigious Thinkers50 Radar list, identifying him as one of the management thinkers most likely to shape the future of business. His Future Readiness Framework provides organizations with a structured approach to anticipating technological change, adapting to regulatory evolution, and transforming compliance requirements into competitive advantages. Through his consulting work and keynote presentations, Ian has helped numerous Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and industry associations develop forward-looking strategies for AI governance, data protection, and digital transformation.
Are you prepared for the coming wave of AI regulation and digital governance requirements? Contact Ian today to discuss how his expertise can help your organization navigate the complex regulatory landscape while maintaining innovation momentum. Ian offers customized keynote presentations on technology policy trends, Future Readiness workshops focused on regulatory navigation, strategic consulting on balancing compliance with innovation, and policy advisory services for organizations operating in regulated technology sectors. Transform regulatory challenges into strategic opportunities—reach out to explore how Ian can help your organization build a future-ready approach to technology governance.
by Ian Khan | Oct 14, 2025 | Blog, Ian Khan Blog, Technology Blog
7 Future Business Models That Will Dominate by 2035
Meta Description: Discover the revolutionary business models that will shape the next decade of commerce, from AI-as-a-Service to circular economy platforms and beyond.
Introduction
The business landscape of 2035 will be unrecognizable from today’s corporate structures. We are witnessing the final stages of traditional business model evolution before a complete paradigm shift driven by artificial intelligence, sustainability imperatives, and changing consumer expectations. The organizations that thrive in this new era won’t just adapt existing models—they will pioneer entirely new ways of creating and capturing value. As a futurist, I’ve identified seven emerging business models that will dominate the next decade, each representing a fundamental rethinking of how businesses operate, compete, and serve their stakeholders. Understanding these models today is essential for building Future Readiness and positioning your organization for long-term success.
1. AI-as-a-Service Ecosystems
By 2035, artificial intelligence won’t be a competitive advantage—it will be table stakes. The most successful companies will build comprehensive AI-as-a-Service ecosystems that provide specialized intelligence to entire industries. These won’t be generic AI platforms but deeply verticalized solutions that understand specific business contexts, regulatory environments, and operational challenges.
How it works: Companies will offer AI capabilities as subscription services, with pricing based on outcomes delivered rather than compute resources consumed. A manufacturing AI service might charge per unit of waste reduction, while a retail AI might earn commissions on sales increases it generates.
Future Readiness Insight: Organizations should begin developing proprietary datasets and domain expertise that can form the foundation of future AI services. The key differentiator won’t be the AI algorithms themselves but the unique data and industry knowledge that powers them.
2. Circular Economy Platforms
The linear “take-make-waste” model will be replaced by circular systems that maximize resource utilization and eliminate waste. By 2035, the most valuable companies will be those that create platforms for tracking, managing, and optimizing the flow of materials through entire economic ecosystems.
How it works: These platforms will use blockchain and IoT sensors to track products throughout their lifecycle, enabling automated resale, refurbishment, and recycling. Companies will generate revenue through transaction fees, material recovery services, and data analytics on resource flows.
Future Readiness Insight: Start mapping your organization’s material flows and identifying opportunities to create closed-loop systems. The first movers in circular economy platforms will capture immense network effects that create sustainable competitive advantages.
3. Outcome-Based Subscription Models
The subscription economy will evolve from access-based to outcome-based models. Instead of paying for products or services, customers will subscribe to guaranteed outcomes. This represents a fundamental shift from selling what you make to delivering what customers need.
How it works: A transportation company might charge per successful journey completed rather than per vehicle sold. A healthcare provider might charge based on health outcomes achieved rather than services rendered. These models align company incentives perfectly with customer success.
Future Readiness Insight: Begin experimenting with outcome-based pricing for pilot projects. The transition requires sophisticated measurement systems and risk management capabilities, but the customer loyalty and recurring revenue potential are enormous.
4. Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs)
Traditional corporate hierarchies will be replaced by fluid, decentralized networks coordinated through blockchain and smart contracts. DAOs will enable global collaboration at scale while maintaining transparency and alignment through token-based governance.
How it works: Organizations will operate as collections of smart contracts that automatically execute based on predefined conditions. Decision-making will be distributed among token holders, with voting power proportional to their stake or contribution to the network.
Future Readiness Insight: Explore how decentralized governance could improve decision-making in your organization. Even traditional companies can benefit from DAO-inspired transparency and stakeholder alignment mechanisms.
5. Personal Data Marketplaces
As data becomes increasingly valuable, individuals will reclaim control over their personal information through decentralized data marketplaces. These platforms will enable people to monetize their data while maintaining privacy and consent.
How it works: Users will store their data in personal data vaults and grant temporary, revocable access to companies that need it for specific purposes. Compensation will be automated through smart contracts based on data usage and value generated.
Future Readiness Insight: Begin developing privacy-first data strategies that respect user control. Companies that build trust around data handling will have privileged access to the highest-quality data in the future.
6. Experience-as-a-Service (XaaS)
The service economy will evolve beyond software and infrastructure to encompass complete experiential offerings. Companies will compete on their ability to deliver transformative experiences rather than discrete products or services.
How it works: Instead of selling fitness equipment, companies will offer personalized wellness journeys. Instead of automotive sales, companies will provide mobility experiences tailored to individual lifestyles and preferences.
Future Readiness Insight: Map your customer’s complete journey and identify opportunities to deliver integrated experiences rather than isolated transactions. The most successful companies will own the customer experience from end to end.
7. Regenerative Business Networks
Sustainability will evolve from risk mitigation to value creation through regenerative business models that actively improve environmental and social systems. These networks will measure success not just in financial terms but in ecological and community benefits generated.
How it works: Companies will form ecosystems where waste from one process becomes input for another, creating positive environmental impacts while generating economic value. Success will be measured through multi-capital accounting that tracks financial, natural, and social capital.
Future Readiness Insight: Begin quantifying your organization’s environmental and social impacts. Companies that can demonstrate positive regeneration will attract the best talent, customers, and investment in the coming decade.
Conclusion
The business models of 2035 represent a fundamental rethinking of value creation in an interconnected, AI-driven, and sustainability-focused world. Success will require more than incremental innovation—it demands a complete reimagining of how businesses operate and compete.
The common thread across all these emerging models is the shift from transactional relationships to ecosystem partnerships, from ownership to access, and from financial metrics to multi-dimensional value measurement. Organizations that embrace these shifts early will build the resilience and adaptability needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing business environment.
Building Future Readiness means starting the transition now—experimenting with new models, developing the necessary capabilities, and cultivating the mindset shifts required for success in the next decade. The future belongs not to the biggest companies but to the most adaptable ones.
About Ian Khan
Ian Khan is a globally recognized futurist, bestselling author, and creator of the acclaimed Amazon Prime series “The Futurist.” His groundbreaking work on Future Readiness has earned him a coveted spot on the Thinkers50 Radar list, identifying him as one of the management thinkers most likely to shape the future of business.
With deep expertise in emerging technologies, business model innovation, and organizational transformation, Ian helps leaders navigate the complex landscape of technological disruption. His Future Readiness frameworks provide practical methodologies for anticipating change and building resilient, forward-thinking organizations.
If your organization is preparing for the business models of tomorrow, Ian Khan offers transformative keynote presentations, Future Readiness workshops, and strategic consulting sessions that provide clarity and direction. Contact us today to discuss how Ian can help your team build a proactive strategy for the coming decade. Available for virtual and in-person sessions worldwide.
by Ian Khan | Oct 14, 2025 | Blog, Ian Khan Blog, Technology Blog
The AI Revolution Demands Future Readiness Now
We stand at the precipice of the most significant technological transformation in human history. The artificial intelligence explosion has ignited a competitive firestorm in Silicon Valley that rivals the smartphone boom era, with tech giants spending billions in what Business Insider describes as “an intensity of competition not seen since the smartphone boom.” This isn’t just about technological advancement—it’s about survival, adaptation, and the fundamental restructuring of how humanity operates.
The Data-Driven Reality of AI Transformation
The numbers don’t lie, and they paint a picture of exponential growth across multiple sectors. According to the Asia-Pacific Overhead Line Inspection Industry Report 2025, the market is projected to grow from USD 1.27 billion in 2024 to USD 2.78 billion by 2035, representing a compound annual growth rate of 7.31%. This infrastructure growth is driven by urbanization, aging infrastructure, and increased electricity demand—all areas where AI and advanced technologies are becoming essential.
Meanwhile, the AI talent war is reaching fever pitch. The recent move of Andrew Tulloch, co-founder of Thinking Machines Lab, to Meta represents the kind of strategic talent acquisition that’s becoming commonplace in what the Wall Street Journal has documented as an increasingly competitive landscape. This isn’t just about individual career moves—it’s about the redistribution of intellectual capital that will determine which organizations lead the next decade of innovation.
Expert Insights: The New AI Ecosystem
The traditional competitive boundaries are blurring in what Business Insider calls “Big Tech’s knotty game of AI Twister.” We’re seeing the rise of what they term “strange AI bedfellows”—unlikely partnerships and collaborations that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago. This includes the OpenAI and Oracle partnership that demonstrates how even direct competitors are finding common ground in the AI arms race.
Stefano Daneri of Fleetio provides crucial insight into how AI is transforming traditional industries, noting that “The adage that you have to spend money to make money is especially true when it comes to technology.” His company’s work in using AI and analytics to keep fleet costs in check demonstrates how digital transformation is moving from luxury to necessity across all sectors.
Daily Highlights: The Convergence of Technology and Humanity
The transformation isn’t limited to Silicon Valley. In the hospitality sector, we’re seeing what Hospitality Net describes as “The New Language of Luxury & Lifestyle Hospitality: Presence, Purpose, and the Art of Quiet Transformation.” Luxury is learning to speak a new language “that whispers rather than shouts”—a shift from extravagance to emotion, from spectacle to stillness. This represents a fundamental human response to technological acceleration.
In financial services, AI is helping credit unions redefine credit for struggling workers. For millions of working families, as PYMNTS reports, “credit isn’t a luxury. It’s a lifeline.” AI systems are now being deployed to provide more nuanced credit assessments that consider factors beyond traditional credit scores, demonstrating how technology can serve humanity in meaningful ways.
The infrastructure supporting this transformation is also evolving rapidly. The 3GPP Release 20 standards, as outlined in the GlobeNewswire report, represent “a pivotal milestone, consolidating 5G-Advanced and seeding 6G studies that will define the next decade of connectivity.” This standards development is crucial for ensuring that the underlying infrastructure can support the AI-driven future we’re building.
Market Realities and Future Readiness
The market volatility highlighted by PYMNTS’ report that “The CE 100 Index was hit hard by the Friday market meltdown” in response to tariff threats reminds us that technological transformation doesn’t occur in a vacuum. Economic and political factors will continue to shape the pace and direction of AI adoption.
As Carl Sagan wisely noted in the Weekly Climate and Energy News Roundup, “We can judge our progress by the courage of our questions and the depth of our answers, our willingness to embrace what is true rather than what feels good.” This sentiment captures the essence of what Future Readiness requires—the courage to ask difficult questions about where technology is taking us and the wisdom to guide that journey responsibly.
The Path Forward: From Digital Transformation to Human Transformation
We’re witnessing the emergence of what I call Exponential Organizations—entities that leverage emerging technologies to achieve disproportionate growth and impact. The companies and institutions that will thrive in this new landscape are those that embrace AI Transformation not as a technological upgrade, but as a fundamental rethinking of their purpose and operations.
The infrastructure inspection market growth, the AI talent migrations, the strange corporate partnerships, and the quiet transformation of luxury hospitality all point to the same conclusion: we’re in the early stages of a revolution that will touch every aspect of human existence.
The question isn’t whether your organization will be affected by these changes—it’s whether you’ll be leading them or reacting to them. Future Readiness requires understanding that AI Ethics must be built into technological development from the beginning, that Digital Transformation is about people as much as technology, and that the organizations that succeed will be those that can navigate the complex interplay between technological capability and human need.
We have a choice: we can let fear of the unknown paralyze us, or we can transform that fear into purpose and progress. The data shows the direction we’re heading. The only question is who will have the courage to lead.
—
About Ian Khan
Ian Khan is a globally recognized futurist, bestselling author, and one of the most sought-after keynote speakers on Future Readiness and Digital Transformation. His groundbreaking work has earned him a spot on the prestigious Thinkers50 Radar list, recognizing the world’s top management thinkers whose ideas are poised to make a lasting impact on the future of business and society.
As the creator of the Amazon Prime series “The Futurist,” Ian has brought complex technological concepts to mainstream audiences, demystifying AI, blockchain, and other exponential technologies while providing practical guidance for organizations navigating digital transformation. His expertise in AI Ethics and Future Readiness has made him a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and industry leaders across multiple sectors.
In an era defined by rapid technological change and unprecedented disruption, Ian’s message of proactive adaptation and human-centered innovation has never been more relevant. His ability to translate complex technological trends into actionable business strategies has made him one of the most influential voices in the global conversation about our collective future.
Ready to future-proof your organization? Contact Ian Khan today for keynote speaking opportunities, Future Readiness workshops, strategic consulting on digital transformation and breakthrough technologies, and virtual or in-person sessions that will equip your team to thrive in the age of AI.
