AI-Ready America

On March 25, a new Federal initiative and funding opportunity was announced in partnership with the National Science Foundation (NSF), the U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration (DOL ETA), The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Small Business Administration (SBA).

“AI Ready America is a national-scale initiative to accelerate Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness and adoption across the U.S. by strengthening coordination, leveraging partnerships and resources, filling gaps, and scaling what works—so local and state priorities can lead in shaping an AI-driven economy that benefits all Americans.

Unlike initiatives centered around K–16 education, AI Ready America additionally reaches businesses, public-serving organizations, and individuals, among others, expanding access to AI knowledge, tools, and resources. The program also emphasizes practical implementation through hands on assistance and workforce upskilling, including experiential learning such as internships, project based work, and apprenticeships, to ensure stakeholders can effectively apply and innovate with AI.”

National Science Foundation (NSF)

Read Announcement

OVERVIEW

The program will establish State Coordination Hubs that are intended to act as liaisons with multiple Federal agencies and provide cross-sector support. Expectations of State Coordination Hubs include:

  • Maintain a publicly accessible and user-friendly inventory of state and territory AI-related resources, including training programs, physical infrastructure, and support services.
  • Develop a strategic plan to meet state/territory priorities around AI readiness.
  • Provide hands-on assistance for AI adoption — including advisory services, training, and technical setup, integration, customization, and deployment — to help local governments and organizations, small businesses, and others implement AI solutions effectively.
  • Coordinate education, workforce, and industry partners across the state’s K – 16 and workforce systems to strengthen AI readiness.
  • Identify and convene stakeholders in economic sectors critical to the state’s economy.

The Arkansas Department of Commerce is leading the proposal submission for the State of Arkansas AI-Ready coordination office, in close collaboration with other state agencies and community stakeholders. Full proposals are due July 16. Awards are $1 million per year for three years, with the possibility of a one-year renewal.

GET INVOLVED

If you’d like to be involved or contribute to the Arkansas AI-Ready Hub effort, please complete the contact form linked below.

Form Link

STAKEHOLDER MEETINGS

Resources from the previous two meetings are included below. An additional meeting will be held in June. Sign up on the form linked above to receive the meeting link and details.

May 29 Meeting Resources

Recording

Presentation Slides

April 20 Meeting Resources

Recording

Presentation Slides

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