The Mississippi state government on June 12 launched the Mississippi AI Talent Accelerator Program (MAI-TAP) that aims to build artificial intelligence and machine learning capacity across the state’s higher education system.
The new program is a joint effort by AccelerateMS, the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), and Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Its mission is to prepare the Mississippi workforce to participate in AI-driven industries by focusing on training, education, and infrastructure that support both the growing tech sector and Amazon’s expanding footprint in the state.
Working to facilitate the MAI-TAP is the newly formed AI Workforce Readiness Council chaired by Kollin Napier of the Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network.
MAI-TAP is kicking off its efforts with $9.1 million in state grants to support workforce development and technology innovation.
Grant recipients include seven institutions of higher learning. Mississippi State University received the largest award – $2.2 million – to support workforce and research initiatives, including a graduate certificate in Data Center Construction Management.
The University of Southern Mississippi was awarded $1.24 million to launch a Maritime AI Innovation Lab and a new master’s program in Robotics and Intelligent Systems.
Other awards include $1.3 million to Jackson State University to engage AI experts and launch student consulting teams; $1.15 million to Alcorn State University for digital literacy training and telehealth applications; $1 million to Millsaps College to establish an endowed AI chair; $723,000 to Mississippi College for AI legal credentials; and $390,000 to Belhaven University for AI curriculum integration in its online MBA program.
“This is another bold step forward for Mississippi,” said Gov. Tate Reeves, who announced the MAI-TAP launch.
“We’re not just preparing for the future – we’re building it,” the governor said. “This investment will help to ensure that Mississippians are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.”
“This is about more than just jobs – it’s about opportunity,” Gov. Reeves said. “With this initiative, we’re ensuring that Mississippi leads the way in AI and machine learning innovation, as well as workforce readiness.”
