News Summary
Three historically Black colleges and universities in Mississippi have been awarded a total of $9.1 million in grants to enhance artificial intelligence education and training. The funding, part of the Mississippi AI Talent Accelerator Program, aims to improve workforce readiness and integrate AI initiatives into their curriculums. Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, and Alcorn State University will utilize the grants for various projects, including hands-on learning and faculty hiring, positioning Mississippi for economic growth in technology-driven fields.
Jackson, Mississippi – Three historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in Mississippi will receive a combined total of $9.1 million in grants designed to enhance artificial intelligence (AI) education and training, according to an announcement made by Governor Tate Reeves on June 12, 2025. This funding is part of the Mississippi AI Talent Accelerator Program (MAI-TAP), which aims to bolster the state’s workforce and pave the way for economic growth.
The grants will be distributed among Jackson State University (JSU), Tougaloo College, and Alcorn State University, each of which will implement various initiatives to integrate AI education into their curriculums and expand workforce readiness programs. Each institution is also encouraged to seek additional private funding to amplify the effectiveness of the grants.
Jackson State University will be allocated $1.3 million to kick-start the Executive On Roster (XOR) initiative. This project is set to engage students, educators, and entrepreneurs in hands-on learning involving emerging technologies. As part of this initiative, student consulting teams at JSU will also provide AI-powered assistance to local small businesses, further bridging the gap between education and practical application.
Tougaloo College will receive $1.08 million, which will be used to hire new faculty with expertise in AI and machine learning, in addition to creating a fund aimed at improving student access to AI-related subjects. The investment will help the college develop a stronger foundation in these critical technological fields.
Alcorn State University will obtain $1.15 million to enhance digital literacy and AI training, particularly in southwest Mississippi. This funding will also support the deployment of telehealth resources through the institution’s School of Nursing, highlighting the potential application of AI in healthcare-related services.
The grants come in the context of a broader workforce development strategy focused on advancing technology in Mississippi. This strategy emphasizes five key areas: building a skilled workforce, promoting AI literacy, upskilling existing workers to foster innovation, and ultimately strengthening the state’s economic future.
In addition to the funding for HBCUs, other educational institutions in Mississippi, including Mississippi State University, Mississippi College, and the University of Southern Mississippi, have also received financial support to aid their respective programs related to AI and machine learning.
This initiative is aligned with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on April 23, which aimed to enhance innovation and educational excellence at HBCUs. By focusing on improving educational quality and expanding access to federal and state grants, the White House Initiative has been dedicated to launching annual summits to set goals and establish partnerships for HBCUs nationwide.
The economic influence of historically Black colleges and universities is substantial, generating approximately $16.5 billion annually and supporting over 136,000 jobs across the United States. By investing in AI education and training at these institutions, Mississippi aims not only to enhance its workforce but also to ensure that students are equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven job market.
The MAI-TAP program represents a significant step forward in fostering a new generation of skilled professionals who can contribute to the growing fields of AI and machine learning, positioning Mississippi for a competitive advantage in the economy of the future.
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- AfroTech: HBCUs in Mississippi Boost AI Education
- Black Enterprise: Jackson State University Receives $1.3M for AI Development
- HBCU Gameday: Jackson State Receives Huge Grant for AI Program
- Vicksburg News: EPA Initiatives for HBCU Engagement
- Wikipedia: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
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The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
