Governor Reeves launches AI initiative across state colleges

JACKSON, Miss. (VDN) — Governor Tate Reeves announced Wednesday the launch of the Mississippi AI Talent Accelerator Program (MAI-TAP), a major new initiative to boost artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and digital workforce development across the state. The program kicks off with $9.1 million in grants to seven colleges and universities.

Designed to support the growth of Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Mississippi, MAI-TAP also lays the groundwork for broader investment in the state’s technology infrastructure. The Mississippi Development Authority, AccelerateMS, and AWS are partnering to fund and guide the initiative.

“We’re not just preparing for the future—we’re building it,” said Reeves. “This investment gives Mississippians the tools they need to succeed in a fast-moving digital economy.”

MAI-TAP

MAI-TAP focuses on five strategic pillars: building a skilled AI/ML workforce, improving AI literacy across the state, aligning education with industry needs, upskilling professionals for innovation, and advancing research infrastructure. The program challenges each grant recipient to seek additional private funding and resources to maximize impact.

A newly formed AI Workforce Readiness Council will oversee collaboration across the program. Dr. Kollin Napier, representing the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network, will chair the council. Each funded institution will appoint a representative to serve on the council.

Grant recipients and their projects include:

• Alcorn State University will receive $1.15 million to train residents in digital literacy and AI fundamentals. The university will also expand telehealth access in rural areas through its School of Nursing.
• Belhaven University secured $390,000 to hire an AI program chair and embed AI curriculum into its online MBA program for working professionals.
• Jackson State University earned $1.3 million to create an Executive On Roster (XOR) program that brings real-time industry expertise to students. JSU will also team up with Millsaps College to help small businesses adopt AI tools.
• Millsaps College will use $1 million to establish an endowed chair in AI and Emerging Technology. Through its ELSEWORKS consulting program, Millsaps students will support small businesses with AI integration, in partnership with JSU.
• Mississippi College will receive $723,000 to launch an AI certificate and microcredential program through its School of Law, helping future lawyers navigate a tech-driven legal environment.
• Mississippi State University will invest $2.2 million in two new faculty positions, AI workforce training, and a graduate certificate in Data Center Construction Management—one of the first such programs in the nation.
• University of Southern Mississippi will use $1.24 million to establish a Maritime AI Innovation Lab that supports Mississippi’s Blue Economy. USM will also introduce a master’s degree in Robotics and Intelligent Systems and pursue private matching funds for AI research.

Governor Reeves also recognized additional institutions—Co-Lin Community College, Hinds Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and the University of Mississippi—for their role in supporting MAI-TAP through ongoing collaboration and existing resources.

“This is about more than just jobs—it’s about opportunity,” Reeves said. “Mississippi is stepping up to lead in AI, machine learning, and workforce innovation. We’re making sure our people don’t just keep up—they lead the way.”