The state of Mississippi and the second-largest company in the world, tech behemoth NVIDIA, have signed a memorandum of understanding to push artificial intelligence integration in the Magnolia State.
The partnership, as detailed by Gov. Tate Reeves during a Wednesday press conference, will expand AI education, promote research efforts, enhance workforce development, and drive economic development.
Wednesday’s announcement follows recent launches of AI-based initiatives by the state, including a talent accelerator program for higher education institutions and an executive order from Reeves centered around moving artificial intelligence technology forward in Mississippi.
“This collaboration with NVIDIA is monumental for Mississippi. By expanding AI education, investing in workforce development and encouraging innovation, we, along with NVIDIA, are creating a pathway to dynamic careers in AI and cybersecurity for Mississippians,” Reeves said.
“These are the in-demand jobs of the future – jobs that will change the landscape of our economy with NVIDIA on this game-changing initiative and look forward to the many benefits Mississippians will reap as a result.”
NVIDIA, currently valued at more than $3.5 trillion, is one of the world leaders in graphics chips and an array of artificial intelligence products.
Goals detailed for the collaboration with NVIDIA include:
- Expand AI education: Mississippi will collaborate with NVIDIA and Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) to introduce cutting-edge AI programs across community colleges, universities and technical institutions. These initiatives will offer certifications, hands-on training and curricula designed to equip students with practical skills in AI, machine learning and data science.
- Strengthen workforce development across sectors: The collaboration will develop programs to train educators and provide career pathways for students and professionals. These initiatives will prioritize underserved and rural communities to ensure broad access to AI and cybersecurity training opportunities.
- Enhance economic growth through AI integration: Mississippi will leverage NVIDIA’s AI expertise to help businesses integrate machine learning and AI solutions into core industries. These efforts aim to boost productivity, resilience and sustainability.
- Promote broad-based engagement: To foster a statewide AI ecosystem, the collaboration will include outreach initiatives to involve diverse stakeholders, including small businesses and community organizations.
- Promote innovation and research collaborations: The collaboration will help foster joint research projects between MAIN and industry leaders to address emerging challenges in agriculture, healthcare, energy and security.
“AI is not just the future – it’s the present. By expanding AI education and fostering collaboration between our research institutions, industry leaders and workforce initiatives, we are creating an ecosystem that drives innovation and expands Mississippi’s capabilities in AI and cybersecurity,” AccelerateMS Executive Director Courtney Taylor.
“This collaboration with NVIDIA is another step in equipping Mississippians with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven economy.”
The state government will also provide funding support for educational infrastructure, digital access and workforce training programs designed to serve economically disadvantaged and rural communities.
In the higher education realm, NVIDIA will help colleges and universities develop AI training programs, integrate NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute resources and provide hands-on learning experiences. The company will also provide access to teaching resources, subject matter experts, and certification pathways to help prepare students for careers in AI-related fields.
