Mercer Times

Governor Phil Murphy and Princeton University President Christopher L. Eisgruber have announced that Microsoft and CoreWeave will join as founding partners in the NJ AI Hub. This collaboration aims to advance New Jersey's role in artificial intelligence innovation. Governor Murphy expressed pride in this partnership, emphasizing its potential to establish New Jersey as a hub for AI talent and innovation.

The NJ AI Summit held last April gathered over 600 leaders from various sectors to discuss the state's future role in AI. Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, delivered the keynote address, while Brian Venturo, Co-Founder of CoreWeave, was a featured speaker.

President Eisgruber highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating it showcases how different sectors can collaborate to promote AI innovation and regional development. He anticipates more colleges and universities joining this initiative.

Located at 619 Alexander Road in West Windsor along New Jersey’s innovation corridor, the NJ AI Hub is expected to be a state-of-the-art ecosystem integrating research, education, and workforce development. Microsoft plans to leverage its TechSpark program to enhance AI skilling and workforce development.

Microsoft's Brad Smith emphasized building a thriving regional AI economy through collaboration with private sectors and academic institutions like Princeton. Brian Venturo from CoreWeave praised the partnership for fostering groundbreaking AI innovation while driving economic growth.

Tim Sullivan from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) underscored the alignment of this initiative with Governor Murphy's vision for high-growth sectors that offer sustainable career opportunities. The NJEDA plans to invest up to $25 million towards supporting the NJ AI Hub's long-term success.

The hub will focus on three key areas: research and development across various industry sectors, commercialization and acceleration of innovation through an AI accelerator, and strengthening education and workforce development by working closely with educational institutions.

Microsoft's TechSpark program will play a significant role by providing training resources across all 50 states, aiming to create job opportunities through local investments. Plans for this hub were initially announced by Governor Murphy and President Eisgruber in 2023.

For more information about developments at the NJ AI Hub, visit their website at njaihub.org.