Mass. economic bill includes millions in funding for AI, quantum computing

Massachusetts is positioning itself as a leader in emerging technologies through a significant economic development bill that allocates substantial funding for artificial intelligence and quantum computing initiatives.

Major funding allocation: The Massachusetts legislature has approved a $3.96 billion economic development bill that includes specific provisions for advancing technological innovation across the state.

• The bill designates $103 million to enhance the state’s competitiveness in AI technologies across various sectors including life sciences, financial services, and healthcare
• A new grant program, administered by Mass Tech Collaborative, will support AI companies and promote development, adoption, and commercialization
• At least $3 million is earmarked for a financial innovation research center in Worcester focused on AI and machine learning in financial services

Quantum computing investment: The bill allocates $40 million for establishing a quantum innovation hub in Western Massachusetts’s Pioneer Valley region.

• A partnership between the state and QuEra Computing will install a quantum computer at the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center in Holyoke
• QuEra Computing has contributed $11 million to the project, while the Healey administration has allocated $5 million in state funds
• The hub aims to provide research and development access and hands-on training opportunities in quantum computing, which uses subatomic particles to process information more efficiently than traditional computers

Strategic oversight: The distribution of AI-related grants will align with priorities set by the state’s Artificial Intelligence Strategic Task Force.

• Governor Maura Healey established the task force in February 2023 to study AI’s impact on state government, universities, and businesses
• The initiative aims to ensure Massachusetts maintains its competitive edge in applied AI
• The task force brings together experts from technology, business, education, healthcare, and government sectors

Economic development goals: State officials emphasize the potential for these investments to drive regional economic growth and innovation.

• Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao highlights the project’s potential to catalyze quantum industry growth in Western Massachusetts
• The initiatives aim to create new career paths and drive innovation across multiple sectors
• The focus on geographic distribution of resources shows a commitment to developing tech hubs beyond the Greater Boston area

Strategic implications: Massachusetts’ substantial investment in emerging technologies positions the state to compete effectively in the rapidly evolving tech landscape, though success will depend on effective implementation and industry adoption of these new resources.