The Department of State has launched the Pax Silica AI Assistance Project during the Second Pax Silica Summit in Washington, D.C., on June 25-26. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg introduced this initiative aimed at expediting the movement of critical AI inputs through strategic partners, with an initial focus on Panama. The Department has issued a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to develop a platform enhancing supply chain security and accelerating shipments of semiconductors, AI infrastructure, and other essential materials across participating nations.
Targeting up to $50 million in foreign assistance funding, the project seeks to establish an AI supply chain credentialing and provenance system to streamline the distribution of critical goods. Following a pilot implementation with Panama’s ports and customs authorities, the initiative could expand to other Pax Silica partner countries if successful. This effort underscores the Department’s commitment to strengthening global AI supply chain resilience through trusted collaboration.
Prospective applicants must submit proposals by the firm deadline of August 20 via the Opportunity Listing page for the Pax Silica Artificial Intelligence Assistance Project. Inquiries should be directed to PaxFund-NOFO-DL@state.gov.
