Expanding AI Voices Act

The "Expanding AI Voices Act" establishes a new program within the National Science Foundation (NSF) to significantly broaden participation in artificial intelligence (AI) research, education, and workforce development . The NSF Director will make competitive, merit-reviewed awards to eligible entities, primarily institutions of higher education not among the top 100 in federal research and development expenditures, and minority-serving institutions such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Tribal Colleges. This initiative aims to strengthen the United States' capacity and partnerships in AI by supporting institutions that may have limited existing AI research capabilities. Grant funds can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including developing or expanding AI research programs, faculty recruitment, and creating bridge programs for post-baccalaureate students pursuing graduate studies in AI. Recipients may also use funds to provide access to critical research resources like computing facilities and to host workshops fostering public-private collaboration. The NSF is mandated to conduct outreach to ensure broad participation across all regions of the United States, with a focus on expanding opportunities for students, including first-generation undergraduates, while ensuring awards are complementary to existing programs.