National Science Foundation Awards UC Davis $5 Million to Lead AI Institutes Virtual Hub
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has granted $5 million over five years to the University of California, Davis, to manage the Artificial Intelligence Institutes Virtual Organization (AIVO). This virtual hub connects new and existing AI institutes established by the federal government as part of a broader $100 million public-private investment in artificial intelligence announced by NSF on July 29, 2025.
“Artificial intelligence is key to strengthening our workforce and boosting U.S. competitiveness,” said Brian Stone, performing the duties of NSF director. “Through the National AI Research Institutes, we are turning ideas and research into real-world solutions and preparing Americans to lead in future technologies and jobs.”
AIVO’s Role and Expansion
Before this award, AIVO operated as a virtual organization supported by NSF and managed by staff from UC Davis’s Artificial Intelligence Institute for Next Generation Food Systems (AIFS). With the new funding, AIVO will become an official NSF-branded community hub.
Initially, AIVO coordinated activities among the original federal AI institutes, including AIFS, and shared knowledge as new institutes formed. It has since grown into a virtual hub supporting all AI institutes, organizing annual summits for AI leadership, and fostering collaboration across institutes.
Under the new contract, AIVO will continue to host events and create opportunities for AI institute personnel and stakeholders to connect. It will also promote public-private partnerships and encourage interest in university-based AI research focused on societal benefits.
Supporting AI Education
In addition to NSF funding, AIVO received $1.75 million from Google.org in December 2024. This grant supports AI education initiatives including K-16 curriculum development, workforce training, AI-assisted learning, and summer programs for high school teachers and students.
Background on AIFS and AI Institutes
The Artificial Intelligence Institute for Next Generation Food Systems (AIFS) at UC Davis was among the seven original AI institutes announced in August 2020. AIFS is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture, while the overall AI Institutes program is led by NSF.
Additional Resources
Media Contacts
- Steve Brown, AIFS: sfbrown@ucdavis.edu
- News and Media Relations: 530-304-8888, ahfell@ucdavis.edu
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