WASHINGTON — Major artificial intelligence companies are preparing for a White House meeting with President Donald Trump next week to discuss a proposed federal government partnership that could include equity stakes allowing the American public to share in the industry's profits.
Trump announced the planned discussions on June 5 while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One. He said the meeting would involve leaders of "all the big ones" in the AI sector, though he did not name specific companies.
The proposal envisions the government taking financial stakes in leading AI firms, modeled in part on the U.S. government's existing approximately 10% stake in Intel, according to administration comments. Trump described it as a way for the American people to become partners in the sector's success.
"There's so much money and it's so incredible," Trump said, adding that under such a partnership, "they're going to like it better." Details of how any equity stakes or profit-sharing would be structured remain unclear.
The discussions come as companies including OpenAI and Anthropic move toward potential public offerings. The Trump administration has separately promoted AI innovation through recent executive actions aimed at reducing regulatory barriers while encouraging responsible development.
Industry reaction has been mixed, with some executives previously floating ideas for public benefit mechanisms from AI gains. Critics have raised concerns about potential government overreach into private enterprise, though specific responses to the latest proposal were not immediately available.
The White House meeting is expected as early as the week of June 9, according to Trump's comments. No agenda or participant list has been released publicly.
AI has become a key focus for U.S. policymakers amid rapid technological advances. Proponents of government involvement argue it could provide direct benefits to citizens from the sector's growth, while others emphasize the importance of maintaining private-sector leadership in innovation.
As of June 11, preparations for the meeting continue, with both the administration and companies expected to engage in discussions on potential structures for any partnership. Further details are anticipated following the talks.
