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. Today, I have been fortunate to get many opportunities like being the CEO and Founder of Fusemachines and adjunct associate professor at Columbia University, all thanks to my ability to access high-quality education. I can attest to how education can transform lives having seen many of my friends’ and family members’ lives and mine transformed through education.
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.
Deliver AI training
AI has the potential to invigorate stagnant economies through new career and job opportunities. However, this is only possible if we have enough skilled people in rural markets to reap the benefits of AI.
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Amazon research, Unlocking the Potential of Rural America, 38% of rural small businesses say they can’t hire the talent with the right digital skills in their area. Additionally, according to the Stanford AI Index report, AI skill demand has increased fivefold since 2013. However, rural America often misses out on these opportunities due to a lack of early exposure to AI and limited tech resources.
