The National Science Foundation (NSF) has unveiled a significant funding initiative under its TechAccess: AI-Ready America program, aimed at enhancing access to artificial intelligence (AI) skills, tools, and training across all U.S. states and territories. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between the nation’s AI capabilities and the practical application of these technologies by workers, businesses, and communities.
In collaboration with various federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Labor, Small Business Administration, and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the NSF is taking initial steps to establish a network of AI-focused Coordination Hubs nationwide. These hubs will serve as regional connectors, facilitating collaboration among employers, educators, and public sector organizations to support AI adoption based on local needs.
The initiative plans to fund up to 56 Coordination Hubs, ensuring coverage across every U.S. state, territory, and the District of Columbia. Each hub is slated to receive up to $1 million annually for three years, with a potential fourth year of funding depending on demand. The strategy emphasizes scaling existing models rather than starting anew, prioritizing coordination and efficiency over redundancy.
Brian Stone, who is currently performing the duties of the NSF Director, characterized the hubs as essential to bolstering America’s competitiveness in AI. He stated, “America’s AI competitiveness depends on a strong research and development ecosystem paired with access to advanced science and technology knowledge for our current and future workforce.” Stone emphasized that the TechAccess initiative lays the groundwork for empowering workers, businesses, and communities to advance AI together.
The program specifically targets three key areas with significant gaps: workforce AI literacy, access to AI tools for small businesses and local governments, and the creation of hands-on learning pathways, such as internships and project-based experiences. The focus is on practical application rather than just awareness, fostering opportunities for learners and workers to engage with AI in real-world settings.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer framed the initiative as integral to workforce development, asserting, “The AI-Ready America initiative will ensure every American worker has the skills, knowledge, and training needed to succeed in an AI-driven economy.” She noted that under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Labor aims to collaborate with the NSF to promote AI readiness, enabling American businesses to innovate with AI and create broad-based opportunities.
Particular attention is given to small businesses and rural communities, which often face challenges in accessing advanced technologies. Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the Small Business Administration, connected the program to broader economic objectives, stating, “Winning the AI race is vital to ensuring continued American dominance in defense, innovation, and economic strength.” She emphasized that the SBA will partner with various organizations to empower small businesses with the necessary training and resources to enhance productivity and foster economic growth for future generations.
In the agricultural sector, access to AI technologies remains inconsistent, especially in rural areas. Jaye Hamby, Director of the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, expressed pride in the partnership with NSF to ensure that all communities, including the most rural, can leverage the advantages of AI. He remarked, “By investing in tools and training that meet farmers and ranchers where they are, we’re helping build an agricultural future that is more resilient, more efficient and more accessible for all.”
The NSF anticipates further expansion of the initiative through additional funding rounds, including Catalyst awards to explore innovative models and a national coordination lead to enhance collaboration among the hubs. Letters of intent for Coordination Hub funding are due by June 16, with full proposals required by July 16. An informational webinar is set for April 14, 2023.
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