Georgia Tech and Emory University are investing more than $1 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) to expand research capabilities, develop a skilled workforce, and drive economic growth across Georgia, the universities announced on Oct. 8.
The combined investment includes approximately $600 million from Emory and more than $575 million from Georgia Tech, according to a press release. The institutions aim to strengthen Atlanta’s position as a technology hub while attracting businesses, private investment, and federal research funding.
Georgia Tech’s investments focus on advanced computing infrastructure, AI research, and workforce development. Emory is directing its funding toward AI talent, healthcare innovation, and applications in medicine, business, law, and ethics.
“Georgia is poised to be a national leader in advanced, responsible AI development that can be counted on to produce the talent, infrastructure, and innovation companies need,” said Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera.
“The combined strengths of Georgia Tech and Emory will help make Atlanta a leading AI hub that drives breakthrough discoveries, launches new ventures, powers industries, and fuels economic growth,” Cabrera added.
A major component of Georgia Tech’s investment is expanding access to advanced computing resources for students, faculty, and researchers.
The university is investing in computing infrastructure at its Tech Square campus, a campuswide computing platform, and a new AI supercomputer called Nexus, scheduled to launch in October. The infrastructure is jointly funded by Georgia Tech, industry partners, and the National Science Foundation.
Georgia Tech’s AI Makerspace also provides more than 6,000 students annually with hands-on experience using advanced AI computing resources. The program, developed in collaboration with NVIDIA, gives students access to computing technology typically reserved for researchers and technology companies.
Emory is also expanding its AI capabilities, directing nearly half of its approximately $600 million investment toward recruiting and retaining talent in Atlanta.
Emory’s AI.Humanity initiative brings together more than 250 faculty members across eight schools and colleges to explore AI applications in healthcare, business, law, the humanities, and ethics. In addition, the university’s AI.Health institute is applying the technology to cancer, kidney disease, and other health challenges. According to the university, the AI.Health iniative has contributed to three spinoff companies and 40 licensed technologies.
“Atlanta is unique because of what we can accomplish together,” said Emory University President Christopher L. Augostini. “The collaboration between our universities and leaders in government and business allows us to identify and respond to the opportunities AI offers our state to accelerate discovery and improve lives.”
Both universities are working to expand AI education and workforce training throughout Georgia.
Georgia Tech’s College of Lifetime Learning is developing continuing education and workforce reskilling programs and partnering with K-12 schools, technical colleges, universities, and industry organizations to broaden access to AI careers.
Emory’s AI + You Georgia initiative provides free AI education and workforce training through community events and online learning. Participants can access educational resources and pursue an Emory AI certification.
The universities said their investments support a broader goal established by the Atlanta Mayor’s Office to position the city among the nation’s top five technology and entrepreneurship hubs and establish it as a national center for applied AI.
