Connecting, Coordinating, and Amplifying the AI Ecosystem

AI is transforming every part of our lives—and the University of Minnesota is ready.

The Data Science and AI Hub is the front door to Data Science and AI. We connect people, ideas, and tools across the University to strengthen Minnesota’s position as a national leader in Data Science and AI. We bring together researchers, educators, students, industry partners, and community organizations to share knowledge, coordinate efforts, and accelerate innovation. As a facilitator, the Hub develops and centralizes  training, education, and guidance that help the University—and the state—build a deeper, more responsible understanding of AI. And as an amplifier, we highlight and elevate the extraordinary work happening across the University in data science, computing, and applied AI, ensuring that Minnesota’s growing AI ecosystem reflects the needs and values of our communities, industries, and public sector. Our mission is to make it possible for everyone in this ecosystem to contribute to—and benefit from—the future of AI.

The Hub regularly convenes leaders across colleges, departments, and statewide partners to identify future priorities aligned with Minnesota’s needs, as well as national and global trends.

Our role at the University, across Minnesota, and beyond

The University of Minnesota is home to world-class research, powerful computing infrastructure, and a growing community dedicated to data-driven discovery. 

The DSAI Hub brings these strengths together by providing:

• University-wide communication and coordination
  To ensure data science and AI activities across campuses are aligned, connected, coordinated, and visible.
• Amplification of research and educational efforts through webinars, networking, and conferences.
• Support for emerging and established AI initiatives by helping teams navigate opportunities, partnerships, and funding landscapes.

We work at both the near-term level—reducing duplication, increasing efficiency, and supporting existing programs—and the long-term level—sparking new research, educational innovations, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Making an Impact: Today and Tomorrow

The Data Science & AI Hub supports and accelerates AI and data science at the University of Minnesota by providing programs, events, collaborations, and resources. Our work connects people, ideas, and tools across campus and beyond, with a focus on advancing innovation, ethical AI, and practical impact.

Our initiatives are structured to serve four core groups, spanning faculty, students, industry, PK–12 partners, and the broader community:

1. Faculty & Academic Professionals

We empower academic staff to lead in AI research, education, and interdisciplinary projects by:

• Supporting Collaboration: Facilitating cross-departmental and cross-campus collaboration, interdisciplinary matchmaking, and connecting teams with opportunities for external partnerships and funding pathways.
• Amplifying Resources: Connecting teams to essential computing resources, training, tools, research infrastructure, and providing access to resources for seed grants and proposal funding for larger projects.
• Fostering Community: Offering programming, AI-focused webinars, distinguished guest seminars, and orientation programs to connect faculty with the broader AI ecosystem.
• Supporting Broad/Big Curriculum Development: Collaborating to support the development of curriculum and graduate training (e.g., computational social science) in areas where AI can accelerate education.

• Amplifying Work: Highlighting and communicating their AI achievements through storytelling, newsletters, and public outreach.

   

2. University Students (Undergraduate & Graduate)

We serve as a central connector, empowering students to learn, experiment, and lead in AI by:

• Connecting to Resources: Facilitating student access to existing courses, workshops, and learning opportunities across the University.
• Hands-on Access: Providing facilitated access to the AI Makerspace for practical, hands-on training and experimentation.
• Community & Events: Hosting high-impact events like the Midwest Undergraduate Data Analysis Competition (MUDAC), AgentDS Competition, workshops, and more  creating a welcoming community of peers.

• Pathways to Opportunity: Supporting seed grant projects, connecting students to research opportunities, and hosting events that highlight real-world applications and career paths, jobs, and internships offered by external partners.

   

3. Industry & Public Sector Partners

We foster partnerships that advance AI research and applications by connecting partners to UMN expertise and opportunities:

• Connecting Expertise: Linking organizations with UMN expertise, research groups, and faculty collaborators for potential joint research initiatives and applied projects.
• Funding & Opportunities: Coordinating and facilitating responses to external funding opportunities.
• Workforce Support: Creating customized training and upskilling in AI for all levels (novice through engineer)
• Student Connections: Connecting partners to resources that support the pipeline, including student internships and research fellowships.

• Events: Hosting workshops, roundtables, and public-facing discussions on emerging AI technologies and funding opportunities.

   

4. K-12, Educators, & Workforce

We support AI literacy and skills development by serving as the bridge between learners and available resources:

• PK–12 Program Coordination: Coordinating collaboration of PK–12 programs across multiple colleges and departments, including summer camps and interactive events (e.g., AI Explorers Summer Camp).
• Educator Professional Development: Connecting educators to existing fellowships, workshops, and courses—including training, curriculum guidance, and microcredentials—to help them integrate data and AI concepts.
• Workforce Resource Hub: Connecting industry partners and the public sector to upskilling programs, custom training, and workforce development resources offered by various state and educational organizations.
• Statewide Partnership: Partnering with state organizations, service cooperatives, and associations to expand AI learning statewide.

Signature Events and Forward Vision

Signature Events and Programs

Our high-impact events connect communities, showcase innovation, and highlight the University’s AI excellence, including the annual Women in AI and Data Science (WiADS) Conference, seminars, forums, and collaborative events across campus.

Looking Ahead: Together, We Advance AI for Minnesota

The Data Science & AI Hub is advancing a coordinated AI roadmap for the University of Minnesota. We align campus efforts with the University’s strategic plan, translating priorities into actionable initiatives—connecting expertise, supporting responsible AI practices, and identifying opportunities for shared infrastructure, guidance, and partnerships to have the greatest effect.

We are building a University and statewide ecosystem where AI is used responsibly, creatively, and collaboratively. Whether you’re exploring a new idea, teaching future innovators, running a research project, or engaging with community or industry partners, our role is to help you connect, grow, and succeed.

For more AI information and resources, visit ai.umn.edu.