A new initiative in Mississippi has been awarded a $250,000 grant with the aim of reducing inequities in artificial intelligence (AI). The Mississippi AI Collaborative believes that AI has the potential to be a “democratizing” force that could bridge economic and technology gaps in the state. The organization, comprised of leaders from various backgrounds including education, technology, and art, aims to ensure equitable access to AI education, skills, and resources for Mississippians.
The Mississippi AI Collaborative received the grant as part of the Generative AI Skills Challenge, where they were one of five recipients selected from nearly 600 applications worldwide. The unique collaboration between Data.org, Microsoft, and the Collaborative will provide funding and technical assistance to advance the initiative.
With a considerable proportion of the population in Mississippi coming from underrepresented communities, the state has been actively working to improve digital access and literacy. The collaborative’s members believe that AI can play a significant role in bridging the digital divide. They plan to examine questions of equity and access to ensure that everyone in the state has the tools and resources to benefit from AI.
One of the key focuses of the grant will be on education. The AI Learning Accelerator for Educators, led by the Mississippi Chapter of the Computer Science Teacher Association, will provide comprehensive training and resources to educators to make AI concepts more accessible for students. The initiative aims to equip educators with the knowledge and skills necessary for teaching AI in an equitable manner.
Another program that will be initiated or expanded with the grant is the AI Agency, led by Bean Path. This agency will assist small businesses and nonprofits in leveraging AI to increase efficiency, improve marketing strategies, and manage workflows. Jackson State students will gain practical experience while providing free technical assistance to these organizations.
The Mississippi AI Collaborative’s efforts are aligned with addressing biases in AI and promoting responsible and ethical AI practices. It is important for users to understand and identify biases present in AI models that can perpetuate societal biases. The initiative aims to teach residents about these biases and encourage critical thinking when using AI technologies.
With the grant funding, the Mississippi AI Collaborative is determined to make a difference in the state’s economy and ensure that Mississippi becomes a technical hub with a readily available and skilled workforce in AI. Through their various educational and business-focused programs, the collaborative aims to empower individuals and organizations alike to embrace AI and its potential for positive change.
The source of the article is from the blog procarsrl.com.ar