Creating a national AI research organization to improve access and capabilities.
The National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) has released a final report that recommends the formation of a multi-billion-dollar research organization to improve the capabilities and accessibility of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to U.S. scientists. The report, commissioned by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, outlines a roadmap and implementation plan for a national cyberinfrastructure to address the access divide.
The report suggests that the new organization would provide a “federated mix of computational and data resources, testbeds, software and testing tools, and user support services via an integrated portal”. The organization would be an independent entity, overseen by the appropriate government agencies and departments, and it would need to be proactive in addressing privacy, civil rights and civil liberties issues.
To fund the organization, the NAIRR proposes an initial investment of $750 million every two years over a six-year period, totaling $2.25 billion. This does not include any associated grants or other programs, which would likely be administered by the National Science Foundation or other existing programs. After the initial investment, the organization would require an annual budget of $60-70 million for ongoing operations.
The establishment of the organization is seen as a way to amplify efforts across the Federal Government to cultivate AI innovation and advance trustworthy AI. It would also help to democratize the AI research and development landscape in the United States, ensuring that all Americans have access to the same resources and opportunities.
The NAIRR report is an important step towards making AI more accessible and equitable. It is now up to Congress to fund the organization and make it a reality. With the right investments, the organization could be a powerful tool for advancing AI research and development in the United States.
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