New York is dramatically scaling up its artificial intelligence capabilities through a strategic expansion of Empire AI, a consortium led by the University at Buffalo (UB) that now encompasses multiple SUNY institutions. This initiative represents a coordinated effort to position New York as a leader in AI research while simultaneously preparing students across the SUNY system for AI-driven careers, reflecting the state’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence for economic growth and societal benefit.
The big picture: New York is significantly increasing its investment in Empire AI, a research hub established last year at the University at Buffalo, to expand computing power and research capacity across the SUNY system.
- The state is building upon an initial $400 million public-private investment with additional funding in the 2025-26 budget to strengthen AI research capabilities.
- Eight SUNY campuses have now launched AI departments and centers, joining the Empire AI Consortium with focuses ranging from health equity to environmental applications.
What they’re saying: SUNY officials view the investment as crucial for establishing New York’s leadership in responsible AI development.
- “Artificial intelligence is a transformative technology and we want to make sure New York is a leader in the field, and particularly a leader in using AI to advance the public good,” said SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr.
- “We’ve got tremendous momentum, and UB is certainly leading the way,” King added, noting UB’s “tremendous history in the field” and faculty expertise dating to AI’s earliest days.
Key details: UB will create a Department of AI and Society specifically dedicated to education and research on using artificial intelligence to benefit society.
- The initiative includes launching the Innovative Network Pioneering AI Research and Excellence Center (INSPIRE) to advance AI research and provide student internships and new professorships.
- SUNY will use a $5 million state investment to advance inclusive AI research while addressing ethical concerns in AI development and promoting responsible data use.
Education transformation: SUNY is rapidly integrating artificial intelligence education across its entire system to prepare students for an AI-driven workforce.
- AI or AI-related curriculum is now being offered at 61 of SUNY’s 64 campuses, demonstrating a system-wide commitment to AI literacy.
- Starting in fall 2026, AI literacy will become a core competency requirement for all incoming SUNY undergraduates, having been incorporated into the system’s general education framework.
- The new AI for the Public Good Faculty Fellows Program will develop resources and support curriculum development focused on effective and ethical AI use.
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