The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced a solicitation to establish a National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource Operations Center (NAIRR-OC), a move aimed at transitioning the National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) from its pilot phase to a sustainable national program.

Launched in 2024 as a public-private partnership, the NAIRR pilot provides researchers with access to advanced computational, data, model, and training resources. Despite rapid AI progress, many researchers and educators still lack the tools needed to explore fundamental AI questions and train students effectively.

So far, the pilot has connected more than 400 research teams with computing platforms, datasets, software, and models, driving innovation across agriculture, drug discovery, cybersecurity, and education. Backed by 14 federal agencies and 28 industry and nonprofit partners, it has accelerated U.S. leadership in responsible AI development.

“We look forward to continued collaboration with private sector and agency partners, whose contributions have been critical in demonstrating the innovation and scientific impact that comes when critical AI resources are made accessible to research and education communities across the country,” Katie Antypas, director of the NSF Office of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure, said.

The new operations center will expand these capabilities by creating a centralized framework for governance, integrating advanced computing and data resources, and launching a web portal for streamlined access. It also aims to strengthen outreach and collaboration within the AI research community.