NSF opens funding call to build AI-ready workforce across all US states

New federal initiative targets AI literacy, workforce skills, and real-world training through nationwide coordination hubs.

The National Science Foundation has announced a new funding opportunity under its TechAccess: AI-Ready America initiative, setting out plans to expand access to AI skills, tools, and training across every US state and territory.

The program brings together multiple federal agencies to address a gap between the country’s AI capabilities and the ability of workers, businesses, and communities to apply them in practice.

As a first step, the NSF is working with partners including the US Department of Labor, Small Business Administration, and the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture to establish a network of AI-focused Coordination Hubs across the country.

Coordination hubs to connect local ecosystems

The initiative will fund up to 56 Coordination Hubs covering all US states, territories, and the District of Columbia. These hubs are expected to act as regional connectors, bringing together employers, educators, and public sector organizations to support AI adoption based on local priorities.

Each hub will receive up to $1 million annually over three years, with the possibility of a fourth year where demand remains. The model is structured around scaling existing approaches rather than building from scratch, with an emphasis on coordination rather than duplication.

Brian Stone, performing the duties of the NSF Director, positions the hubs as part of a broader infrastructure play. He says: "America's AI competitiveness depends on a strong research and development ecosystem paired with access to advanced science and technology knowledge for our current and future workforce."

He adds: "NSF AI-Ready America provides that foundation — giving workers, businesses and communities in every state and territory the tools and knowledge to advance AI together."

Focus shifts to applied AI skills

The program targets three areas where gaps are most visible: workforce AI literacy, access to tools for small businesses and local governments, and hands-on pathways such as internships and project-based learning.

The emphasis is on application rather than awareness. That includes creating opportunities for learners and workers to use AI in real-world contexts, rather than limiting activity to training programs.

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer frames the initiative as a workforce issue. She says: "The AI-Ready America initiative will ensure every American worker has the skills, knowledge, and training needed to succeed in an AI-driven economy."

She adds: "Under President Trump's bold leadership, the Department of Labor is proud to partner with NSF to advance AI readiness, empower American businesses to innovate with AI, and create opportunities that will benefit all Americans."

Small business and rural access in scope

Alongside workforce development, the initiative places specific focus on enabling smaller organizations and rural communities to engage with AI technologies.

Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the Small Business Administration, links the program to broader economic priorities. She says: “Winning the AI race is vital to ensuring continued American dominance in defense, innovation, and economic strength.” She adds that the SBA will work with partners “to empower small businesses with the training and resources to enhance efficiencies and drive prosperity for the next generation.”

For agriculture and rural communities, access remains uneven. Jaye Hamby, Director of the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, says: "USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture is proud to partner with NSF on this national effort to ensure that every community — including the most rural — can benefit from the power of artificial intelligence."

He adds: "By investing in tools and training that meet farmers and ranchers where they are, we're helping build an agricultural future that is more resilient, more efficient and more accessible for all."

The NSF expects to expand the program further through additional funding rounds, including Catalyst awards to test new models and a national coordination lead to support collaboration between hubs.

Letters of intent for the Coordination Hub funding are due June 16, with full proposals required by July 16. An informational webinar is scheduled for April 14.