There are alternative openings, particularly going to AI 2 (or nav 1, although I think AI 2 is a much more attractive option long-term), and then using either the QIC booster or the 1o/1QIC tech tile to take the 4 QIC action. This can allow you to get a tech bump in another track (particularly econ or science, but also potentially gaiaforming), and go up to AI 3 in a subsequent round.