World’s largest dataset shows transparency gaps in AI adoption

The Thomson Reuters Foundation has created the world’s largest dataset on how companies are using AI. Through our free tool, we’re supporting companies to prioritise transparency and responsible practice.

As companies race to embrace the potential of AI, they are adopting the technology faster than they are governing it, according to data from the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

The Foundation’s AI Company Data Initiative (AICDI) analysed publicly available data from 1000 companies from 13 sectors across the globe, making it the world’s largest dataset on corporate AI adoption.

While 48% of companies sampled disclosed AI strategies or guidelines, there are significant gaps in the detail and transparency of their governance approach.

AI transparency gaps

Of companies that disclosed an AI strategy or policy, 71% included principles like ‘ethical’, ‘safe’, ‘secure’ or ‘trustworthy’ AI.

However, the data reveals that implementation lags behind on key criteria that shape how AI works in public interest:

A transparency solution

To mitigate the risks of AI governance, companies need a thorough understanding of where AI is being used and its wider impacts.

The AI Company Data Initiative has been developed with UNESCO to allow businesses to benchmark their AI adoption.

It is made up of publicly available information and data that is voluntarily disclosed by leading companies.

Through our free assessment tool, companies can:

• Audit where AI is being used across operations, products and services
• Benchmark AI governance maturity against industry peers
• Identify areas for improvement
• Align AI adoption with the only global standard on AI ethics, developed by UNESCO
• Demonstrate leadership to investors, consumers, clients and other stakeholders.

Data insights to empower the private sector

For over a decade, the Foundation has equipped the private sector with the insights they need to adopt business practices that balance people and profit.

Building on our experience with the Workforce Disclosure Initiative – another leading transparency platform on workforce issues – we’re now supporting companies to audit and benchmark their AI use across products, operations and services.

As AI re-shapes economies and the working lives of millions, insights from AICDI give companies the data and tools they need to govern it responsibly.

The current AICDI survey is open for company responses until 30 November 2025.

Opportunities for investors

Accessing comparable data on company AI adoption will create opportunities for investors to track financial performance alongside AI transparency.

Meanwhile, the current transparency gap creates regulatory, reputational, and operational exposures that traditional investment analysis may not capture.

By joining the AICDI’s investor coalition, investors gain access to the full dataset and insights to enhance their stewardship.