Google Awards NC Central University $1 Million Grant to Establish the First AI Institute at an HBCU
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) has secured a $1 million grant from Google to establish the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Equity Research, marking a historic first for a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in AI research. This new institute will enhance research and educational opportunities, positioning students and the state as leaders in AI innovation, equity, and workforce development.
Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon expressed gratitude for Google's partnership in shaping NCCU's role in AI education and research. "The $1 million investment from Google will create an epicenter for AI within the HBCU network," said Dixon, "preparing our students with the tools and knowledge to lead the AI field while developing technologies that benefit society."
Collaboration with corporations, local community colleges, universities, and the Research Triangle Park network will provide opportunities for as many as 200 students to engage in AI-related fields through interdisciplinary courses, research, and mentorship. The institute, set to open in 2025, aims to be the leading hub for AI within the HBCU network, advancing diversity, inclusion, and equitable representation of AI-related industries.
An event on the NCCU campus celebrated today's announcement, drawing representatives from other grant recipients, university and Google leaders, local elected officials, and students. The state's commitment to advancing AI research was highlighted, as well as fostering collaboration between universities and industry.
Google's Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Melonie Parker, emphasized the need for AI technologies to be developed with equity and inclusivity at their core. "We're thrilled that this grant will not only promote collaboration among HBCUs nationwide but also fuel innovation in AI, empowering a diverse group of future leaders to tackle both the technical and ethical challenges in this rapidly evolving field," said Parker.
Google awarded the funding as part of nearly $2 million in grants to North Carolina universities and organizations. In addition to the NCCU AI Institute, the grants support the NCCU AI Tutors Program, NC School of Science and Math AI Summer Institute, NC Business Committee for Education, Appalachian State University Cybersecurity Program/AI Professional Development, NC Growth AI and Tech program for rural communities, and Durham Public Schools Foundation.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Department of Defense (DoD) are among the agencies supporting research at minority-serving institutions like HBCUs. For instance, the NSF backs the HBCU Excellence in Research (HBCU-EiR) program, with upcoming deadlines in 2025. However, specific information about other HBCUs receiving AI grants is not readily available. To find more detailed information, it's advised to check directly with the institutions or relevant grant agencies.
- The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) will establish the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Equity Research, funded by a $1 million grant from Google, serving as the first HBCU in AI research.
- By positioning students as leaders in AI innovation, equity, and workforce development, NCCU aims to be the leading hub for AI within the HBCU network.
- In collaboration with various entities, the institute aims to provide interdisciplinary learning opportunities for up to 200 students in AI-related fields.
- Google's Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Melonie Parker, highlighted the importance of promoting equitable representation and fostering collaboration between universities and industry in AI research.
- The funding from Google is part of nearly $2 million in grants awarded to North Carolina universities and organizations, supporting a range of AI-related programs and initiatives.
- To stay informed about AI grants for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions, it's advised to check directly with the institutions or relevant grant agencies, such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Department of Defense (DoD).
