Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Pexels

While AI development remains heavily concentrated in established tech hubs like San Francisco and Boston, new research indicates burgeoning potential in cities across the United States. A Brookings Institution report highlights a disparity in AI activity, labeling dominant regions as “AI Superstars” due to their high concentration of AI professionals and startups. However, cities such as Pittsburgh, Detroit, and Nashville are demonstrating promising growth, carving out niches in federal research contracts or attracting venture capital. These emerging centers often face challenges in areas such as talent acquisition, innovation, or widespread AI adoption within local businesses.

The report emphasizes the crucial role of collaboration between universities and industry in strengthening local AI ecosystems and fostering sustainable growth. Using metrics related to talent pool development, innovation, and adoption potential, the Brookings analysis suggests that while AI is impacting economies nationwide, its distribution remains uneven. The research underscores the need for policymakers to support AI development across diverse regions, focusing on tailored strategies that address specific local weaknesses, whether it be talent shortages or limited innovation capacity. This distributed growth approach can foster a more balanced and robust national AI landscape.