During the IBM Think 2025 conference in Boston, Governor Maura Healey announced significant developments in Massachusetts' artificial intelligence sector. The state is investing $31 million to enhance access to high-performance computing crucial for AI innovation. This initiative includes hiring the first director of the Massachusetts AI Hub and exploring a new partnership with IBM and Red Hat to establish a startup accelerator program.

Governor Healey initiated the Massachusetts AI Hub in December 2024, aiming to position Massachusetts as a leader in AI innovation. The effort seeks collaboration among government, industry, startups, and academia to address global challenges and boost economic opportunities statewide.

"We are grateful to IBM for choosing Massachusetts for its global 2025 Think conference," said Governor Healey. "Together, we’re positioning Massachusetts as a global leader in applied AI."

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll highlighted the potential of AI to transform lives and create partnerships. "It’s necessary that we support this growth through centers of learning," she stated.

The $31 million grant will partner with the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center (MGHPCC) to create an Artificial Intelligence Compute Resources environment. This will provide essential infrastructure for higher education institutions, startups, businesses, and residents of Massachusetts.

John Goodhue, MGHPCC Executive Director, expressed enthusiasm about these developments: "The MGHPCC and its member universities are excited to be a part of this effort."

Governor Healey also announced plans for a public-private partnership with IBM and Red Hat aimed at supporting AI startups. Interim Economic Development Secretary Ashley Stolba remarked on the economic opportunities this presents: "Today’s announcements are another step towards capitalizing on our state’s unique opportunity."

Technology Services and Security Secretary Jason Snyder noted that Massachusetts is well-positioned to lead in AI: "AI solutions adopted by state agencies are meant to enhance government services."

Additionally, Sabrina Mansur has been appointed as the executive director of the Massachusetts AI Hub. Carolyn Kirk from MassTech praised her expertise: "Sabrina brings the expertise needed to build on the momentum for artificial intelligence in our state."

Recent investments include more than $3 million for AI model development projects and over $1.9 million granted through MassTech's Sector Spark program.

The Massachusetts AI Hub serves as a central nexus for AI innovation across various sectors within the state.