The U.S. National Science Foundation is preparing AI-capable innovators and workers by investing in them at every stage of their education and careers.
NSF's investments in the nation's AI workforce focus on:
- Growing human capital, equipping educators and practitioners with the skills needed to contribute to an AI-driven economy.
- Developing institutional capacity to perform AI research and development.
- Developing AI systems that enhance teaching and learning for all.
These investments are helping to secure U.S. leadership in AI and are laying the foundation for greater prosperity and innovation across America.
On this page
Major initiatives
National AI Research Institutes
Supports national hubs for universities, government, industry and nonprofits to advance AI research, build a national infrastructure for AI education and workforce development, and train the next generation of researchers and practitioners.
National AI Research Resource (NAIRR)
Led by NSF in partnership with dozens of federal agencies and non-governmental partners, the NAIRR pilot connects U.S. researchers and students to technological and educational resources that allow them to participate in AI research.
Featured funding
Discovery Research PreK-12, Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers
Provides hands-on learning experiences to get students interested in AI, computer science and careers in STEM.
Advanced Technical Education
Supports the education of skilled technical workers at two-year institutions.
Advancing Informal STEM Learning
Supports public understanding of STEM including in technologies such as AI.
Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT)
Supports hands-on learning opportunities for learners from non-traditional backgrounds, equipping them with skills for emerging technology fields.
Expanding K-12 Resources For AI Education
Invites supplemental funding requests to current NSF awardees in certain NSF directorates to support the expansion of K-12 resources for AI education.
Expanding AI Career and Skilled Technical Workforce Opportunities in Support of High School Students
Invites supplemental funding requests from current ExLENT and ATE awardees for education-industry collaboration supporting AI-focused career and skill building learning opportunities for high school students.
Scholarships and fellowships
Explore programs that offer financial support, mentorship and hands-on training in AI and other areas:
