NCCU Secures Google $1 Million Grant to Fund the First HBCU AI Institute

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) secured a $1 million grant from Google to establish the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Equity Research. 

This historic event marks the first artificial intelligence-focused institute at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

The grant for the NCCU AI Institute is designed to enhance research and educational opportunities and position students and the state as leaders in AI innovation, equity, and workforce development.

Creating Opportunities For HBCU Students in AI

NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon emphasized the impact of Google’s partnership in shaping the university’s role in AI education and research.

“North Carolina Central University is grateful to Google for their transformative $1 million investment to create the Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Equity Research, marking a historic first for an HBCU,” said Chancellor Dixon. 

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“This partnership will prepare our students with the tools and knowledge to lead the AI field while developing technologies that benefit society. Through collaboration with corporations, local community colleges and universities, and the Research Triangle Park network, the institute will serve as an epicenter for workforce development, research, and innovation, empowering students to lead one of the most impactful fields of our time and help make AI a force for good in the world,” Dixon continued.

The Google.org grant will create opportunities for as many as 200 students to engage in AI-related fields through interdisciplinary courses, research, and mentorship within the first two years of its launch. 

The institute, which will open in 2025, will also become the leading hub for AI within the HBCU network, advancing diversity, inclusion, and equitable representation of AI-related industries.

An Event to Celebrate The Historic Initiative in NCCU

To celebrate today’s announcement, NCCU hosted an event on its campus, bringing together representatives from other grant recipients, university and Google leaders, local elected officials, and students. 

The event highlighted how the state is committed to advancing AI research. In addition, it will foster collaboration between universities and industry and ensure students have access to cutting-edge technology and educational opportunities.

Google’s Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Melonie Parker, rehashed the pertinent responsibility of AI development in equipping the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.  

“Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries across the globe, and it’s essential that AI technologies are developed with equity and inclusivity at their core,” said Parker. 

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“We’re thrilled that this grant will not only promote collaboration among HBCUs nationwide but also fuel innovation in AI, empowering a diverse group of future leaders to tackle both the technical and ethical challenges in this rapidly evolving field.”

The funding from Google.org for NCCU’s program is designed to enhance research and educational opportunities and position students and the state as leaders in AI innovation equity and workforce development.

The grant to NCCU is part of almost $2 million in grants to North Carolina universities and organizations across the state. Grant recipients and the programs and initiatives that the funding will support are: 

• NCCU AI Institute – $1 million 
• NCCU AI Tutors Program – $45,000
• NC School of Science and Math AI Summer Institute – $408,000
• NC Business Committee for Education – $385,000
• Appalachian State University Cybersecurity Program/AI Professional Development – $100,000
• NC Growth AI and Tech program for rural communities – $100,000
• Durham Public Schools Foundation – $25,000