Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Science Foundation's Division of Information and Intelligent Systems awarded $461,140 to the University of Miami (prime recipient) on July 1, 2026, under the Computer and Information Science and Engineering program (CFDA 47.070) to establish a collaborative, remotely accessible Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) infrastructure. This collaborative research project, coordinated among the University of Miami, University of Florida, North Carolina A&T, and Prairie View A&M University, will deliver immersive, hands-on AI learning experiences to over 30 instructors and approximately 1,500 undergraduate students across participating institutions through September 30, 2027.

The project will develop and provide access to state-of-the-art AIoT laboratory facilities that integrate hardware and software components, addressing critical gaps in current AI education that emphasizes software skills while neglecting essential hardware components. Key deliverables include foundational educational content highlighting the interplay among AIoT systems, immersive learning strategies to enhance student engagement, and industry-aligned curriculum developed through partnerships with industry leaders. The initiative specifically targets resource-constrained institutions and underserved minority populations, promoting diversity and inclusion in AI workforce development while enabling broader access to advanced laboratory infrastructure that individual institutions cannot provide independently.