This is how we can use AI to empower rural America

AI has become a market imperative for leading American businesses. However, current AI knowledge is largely centered around cities. Meanwhile, in rural America, income inequality has never been higher—nor has the digital divide been more deeply felt. The disparity between rural and urban wages also only seems to be widening.  Although concerns persist about AI’s impact on employment, AI training emerges as a valuable ally in reducing poverty in rural regions and bridging the digital divide that holds back local economies. Growing up in Kathmandu, Nepal, I experienced this digital divide firsthand. That’s why I want to do my part to bridge the gap between talent and opportunities. I’ve made it my lifelong mission to democratize AI by making AI education and AI-powered possibilities accessible to everyone. In doing so, I see immense opportunity to drive social mobility and equal opportunity for those born from all walks of life. I have identified three critical areas of focus that will help AI be the purveyor of an empowered rural America. 

1. Deliver AI Training: AI training can play a significant role in providing upskilling opportunities, addressing talent gaps, and enabling economic growth. Thanks to advancements in technology, AI education is more accessible than ever, breaking down geographical barriers and enabling rural residents to tap into educational and career opportunities far beyond their local communities.
2. Level Up Declining Education Systems: To ensure AI education reaches rural areas effectively, courses, teachers, and teaching tools must prioritize accessibility. They should be intuitive and user-friendly, designed to work across various technological levels.  Hands-on teaching methods, such as 1:1 workshops led by industry professionals, can further provide personalized learning experiences tailored to specific fields or skill levels.
3. Drive Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Since AI’s applications are industry-agnostic, AI can bring numerous innovative advancements to a community depending on each rural area’s core strengths. From yield-boosting agriculture solutions to improving small business productivity by predicting the demands and boosting efficiencies to enhancing customer experiences, AI can directly impact the productivity of every industry integrated within the rural economy.

[Sameer Maskey, PhD is a computer scientist, adjunct associate professor at Columbia University, and the founder and CEO of Fusemachines, an AI company that provides AI products and solutions for various industries.]