This chapter introduces the book and outlines the contents of the rest of the chapters. The potential future envisioned in the 2030 SDG agenda—a world free from poverty, hunger, and environmental degradation—is slowly becoming elusive, if not illusionary. That desired future—complete attainment of the SDGs—is not inevitable. It is contingent on immediate and transformative action. Political and business leaders, policymakers, academics, civil society activists, and ordinary citizens must reignite momentum towards the SDGs, ensuring that 2030 becomes a milestone of achievement rather than a moment of regret. Global cooperation, regional/continental integration, moving up global value chains, inclusive economic transformation, addressing the climate crisis, and using advanced technology (in particular AI) can play a significant role in the arduous journey to 2030. The emphasis is on bold but responsible AI development and deployment, ensuring that AI systems are grand, ambitious, transparent, explainable, and aligned with human values. All national, regional, continental, and global stakeholders must understand and harness AI’s potential to drive progress towards the SDGs.