Baltimore, January 29, 2026
Baltimore is implementing various initiatives to equip its workforce with essential AI skills as the economy rapidly evolves. Programs such as the AI-Enabled Business Accelerator and the AI Computer Resource Lab aim to foster innovation and ensure that residents are prepared for future job opportunities in sectors leveraging artificial intelligence. These efforts highlight a strong commitment to workforce development and aim to address ongoing challenges within the job market.
Baltimore Prepares Its Workforce for the AI Economy
Baltimore is actively preparing its workforce for the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) economy through various initiatives aimed at equipping residents with essential AI skills and fostering innovation.
AI Education and Training Programs
The University of Baltimore has launched an AI-Enabled Business Accelerator, a nine-week program designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs build scalable ventures that use artificial intelligence in practical, market-ready ways. The inaugural cohort includes eight Baltimore-based founders applying AI across healthcare, energy, education, housing, workforce development, and small business services. The program is housed within UBalt’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and is supported by funding from TEDCO, Maryland’s economic development agency. This initiative aims to connect innovation to opportunity by helping founders apply AI in practical ways, build strong businesses, and stay rooted in Baltimore as they grow.
Community Access to AI Resources
In September 2025, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, NWN, and Intel Corporation officially opened the world’s first AI Computer Resource Lab at the Greenmount Recreation Center in Baltimore. This innovative lab was created in partnership with Baltimore Recreation and Parks to provide youth and seniors with access to cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools and training. The lab is equipped with advanced AI PCs powered by Intel and fully managed by NWN, serving as a community hub for digital learning, career readiness, and innovation, and is designed to serve thousands of Baltimore residents.
Workforce Development and Industry Collaboration
Maryland’s Department of Commerce is strategically aligning state workforce development efforts to meet the growing demand for AI skills. The state is investing in AI from the ground up, supporting research, and ensuring the right talent pipeline to attract and grow businesses. This alignment is facilitated by the state’s emerging technology sub-cabinet, which coordinates policy across workforce, education, and commerce to ensure Maryland remains competitive in the AI economy. The state’s proximity to federal agencies and cybersecurity clusters in Washington, D.C., and its lower cost of doing business compared to cities like Boston, San Francisco, or New York, make it an attractive location for companies looking to scale AI efforts responsibly and affordably.
Addressing Workforce Challenges
Despite these advancements, Maryland has faced challenges in its workforce. In August 2025, the state experienced a decline of 3,200 jobs, including a loss of 2,500 federal government positions. This decline highlights the need for continuous adaptation and upskilling to meet the demands of the evolving job market. Experts emphasize the importance of treating this period as a transition, focusing on understanding and integrating AI capabilities into various sectors to mitigate job losses and create new opportunities.
Conclusion
Baltimore’s proactive approach to integrating AI into its workforce development strategies demonstrates a commitment to preparing residents for the future economy. Through educational programs, community resources, and strategic industry collaborations, the city is laying the groundwork for a robust AI-ready workforce that can drive innovation and economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the AI-Enabled Business Accelerator at the University of Baltimore?
The AI-Enabled Business Accelerator is a nine-week program designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs build scalable ventures that use artificial intelligence in practical, market-ready ways. The inaugural cohort includes eight Baltimore-based founders applying AI across various sectors, and the program is supported by funding from TEDCO, Maryland’s economic development agency.
What is the purpose of the AI Computer Resource Lab in Baltimore?
The AI Computer Resource Lab, opened in September 2025, provides youth and seniors in Baltimore with access to cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools and training. Equipped with advanced AI PCs powered by Intel and managed by NWN, the lab serves as a community hub for digital learning, career readiness, and innovation, aiming to serve thousands of Baltimore residents.
How is Maryland addressing the demand for AI skills in the workforce?
Maryland’s Department of Commerce is strategically aligning state workforce development efforts to meet the growing demand for AI skills. The state is investing in AI research and ensuring the right talent pipeline to attract and grow businesses. This alignment is facilitated by the state’s emerging technology sub-cabinet, which coordinates policy across workforce, education, and commerce to ensure Maryland remains competitive in the AI economy.
What challenges has Maryland faced in its workforce recently?
In August 2025, Maryland experienced a decline of 3,200 jobs, including a loss of 2,500 federal government positions. This decline highlights the need for continuous adaptation and upskilling to meet the demands of the evolving job market. Experts emphasize the importance of treating this period as a transition, focusing on understanding and integrating AI capabilities into various sectors to mitigate job losses and create new opportunities.
Key Features of Baltimore’s AI Workforce Initiatives
| Initiative | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| AI-Enabled Business Accelerator | A nine-week program at the University of Baltimore supporting early-stage entrepreneurs in building AI-driven ventures. | Empowers local founders to develop scalable AI applications across various sectors, fostering innovation and economic growth. |
| AI Computer Resource Lab | A community hub at the Greenmount Recreation Center providing access to AI tools and training for youth and seniors. | Enhances digital literacy and career readiness among Baltimore residents, promoting inclusive access to AI resources. |
| State Workforce Development Alignment | Maryland’s Department of Commerce coordinating efforts to meet the growing demand for AI skills through strategic investments and policy alignment. | Ensures a competitive workforce capable of supporting and driving AI innovation within the state. |
| Addressing Workforce Challenges | Efforts to mitigate job losses and create new opportunities in response to recent workforce declines, emphasizing AI integration. | Supports economic resilience and adaptation to the evolving job market influenced by AI advancements. |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
