The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), in collaboration with Albany State University (ASU), SOWEGA Rising, the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Atlanta, The Vicks Estate, Farm, & Fishery, the Truist Foundation Fellowship, and The Watson Institute, is set to host the AgriTech & AI Innovation Expo at ASU’s West Campus. This event will bring leaders in agriculture, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced manufacturing together to shape the future of workforce development and economic growth in rural Georgia.

The AgriTech & AI Innovation Expo is designed to connect education, industry, and entrepreneurship, offering hands-on AI demonstrations, workforce development resources, and expert discussions on how automation and innovation are reshaping agriculture and manufacturing.

RICE’s Georgia AIM Mobile Studio: Bringing Innovation Directly to the Community

A major highlight of the event will be the RICE Georgia AIM Mobile Studio, a state-of-the-art mobile innovation lab designed to provide hands-on experiences with AI, robotics, and smart manufacturing technologies. The Mobile Studio will be on-site, allowing attendees to interact with real-world AI applications, automation tools, and emerging technology that are transforming the manufacturing and agricultural industries.

Clinton Banks-Vicks, RICE Georgia AIM Community Engagement Specialist and Owner of The Vicks Estate, Farm, & Fishery, emphasized the impact of this initiative, stating, "The Russell Centers’ presence and participation with our Mobile Unit will allow the opportunity to maximize our resources by exposing a very diverse group of rural Georgians to the agricultural technology and AI innovation that will be leading our workforce.

" This interactive experience is designed to introduce AI-powered manufacturing processes to students, educators, and business leaders, showcase automation and robotics as solutions to workforce challenges, and provide hands-on learning experiences to prepare Georgia’s workforce for the jobs of the future. The Mobile Studio is a part of RICE’s broader mission to ensure that Black entrepreneurs, rural communities, and underrepresented groups have access to cutting-edge technology, positioning them for success in a rapidly evolving economy. Empowering Communities Through AI and Innovation

As AI continues to transform traditional industries, this event will highlight how technology is creating new opportunities in rural areas and preparing communities for high-growth careers in AI-powered manufacturing and precision agriculture.

The event will also feature:

• Breakout sessions with visiting professors from the Netherlands and industry leaders on

• AgriTech, automation, and AI.

• Interactive exhibits showcasing robotics, smart farming, and AI-driven automation.

• Panel discussions addressing technical training, funding access, and job creation in AI and agriculture.

Networking opportunities with students, business owners, and policymakers focused on technology-driven workforce development.

Why This Expo Matters

With 85 percent of jobs in 2030 yet to be created, AI and automation are critical to building a skilled workforce that can drive economic mobility in Georgia and beyond. The AgriTech & AI Innovation Expo will serve as a blueprint for preparing communities, educators, and industries for the next era of innovation.

Join Us at Albany State University

This free event is open to high school seniors, college-age students, farmers, educators, business leaders, government officials, and community members eager to explore how AI and AgriTech can fuel economic and workforce development.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025 (Earth Day)

Location: Albany State University, West Campus

Activities: Interactive exhibits, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and lunch provided

Partnership Highlight:

The Truist Foundation Fellowship, powered by the Watson Institute, is a key partner and sponsor of the AgriTech & AI Innovation Expo. This fully-funded venture and leadership development program empowers entrepreneurs, business owners, and nonprofit founders across Georgia with vital technical training, enhanced business acumen, and financial literacy skills. By equipping leaders dedicated to serving emerging markets in both rural and urban Georgia, the Fellowship plays a pivotal role in fostering job creation and driving economic development. Their partnership aligns perfectly with the Expo's mission to connect innovation with community impact.