NSF TechAccess: AI-Ready America Coordination Hubs — Up to $1M/Year to Expand AI Skills and Access

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA NIFA), the United States Department of Labor, and the Small Business Administration, is inviting applications for the TechAccess: AI-Ready America Coordination Hubs initiative.

This major funding opportunity supports the creation of state- and territory-based hubs designed to expand AI access, literacy, and workforce readiness across the United States.

About the Initiative

The TechAccess program aims to strengthen the U.S. workforce and economy by ensuring that individuals, businesses, and communities are equipped to understand and adopt artificial intelligence technologies.

Selected Coordination Hubs will serve as regional centers for AI education, training, and adoption support, helping bridge the gap between emerging technologies and real-world application.

What the Hubs Will Do

Funded hubs will:

Provide AI literacy and foundational education programs
Deliver applied AI skills training for workers and businesses
Offer technical assistance to support AI adoption
Facilitate hands-on learning opportunities, including internships and project-based experiences
Strengthen regional innovation ecosystems and workforce development

Funding Details

Award amount: Up to $1,000,000 per year per hub
Duration: 3 years (with potential for a 4th year)
Funding supports large-scale, collaborative, and impact-driven initiatives

Who Should Apply

This opportunity is targeted at organizations capable of leading regional initiatives, including:

Universities and research institutions
Nonprofits and workforce development organizations
Public-private partnerships
State or territory-based entities

Applicants should demonstrate the capacity to coordinate multi-stakeholder efforts and deliver measurable impact in AI readiness.

Why This Opportunity Matters

As AI continues to reshape industries, access to skills and tools becomes critical. This initiative ensures that workers, small businesses, and underserved communities are not left behind in the digital transformation.

It is a strategic investment in building an inclusive, AI-ready workforce and economy.

Application Deadline

📅 June 23, 2026 (5:00 PM EDT)

Informational Webinar

📅 Date: April 14, 2026
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM EDT

🔗 Register here.

For more Grant Opportunities, Visit OFY here.