2026 AI Forward Conference

AI Forward is North Carolina A&T State University’s premier artificial intelligence conference, bringing together leaders across higher education, enterprise, government and technology in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Focused on real-world impact, AI Forward explores how artificial intelligence is transforming organizations, industries and the future of work. The conference highlights practical applications, responsible innovation and strategies driving digital transformation across sectors.

As the nation’s largest HBCU and a leader in innovation, North Carolina A&T convenes a diverse network of executives, educators, researchers and technology partners to collaborate, exchange ideas and build solutions.

AI Forward serves as a national platform connecting academia, enterprise and emerging technologies—driving collaboration, talent development and economic growth.

Conference Information

Date: Sept. 23-24
Location: Koury Convention Center, 3121 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro, North Carolina
Registration Information: coming soon
Sponsorship Opportunities: coming soon

Don’t Watch the Future Happen—Be There. AI Forward Begins in:

What You’ll Walk Away With

A clear understanding of how AI is transforming enterprise operations, higher education, and workforce development.
Actionable AI use cases, tools, and implementation strategies you can apply immediately.
Meaningful connections with leaders across higher education, business, government, and innovation sectors.
Direct access to leading vendors, sponsors, and emerging technology partners shaping the future of AI.
Insights to strengthen talent pipelines, workforce readiness, and industry-aligned partnerships.
Informed perspectives on responsible AI, ethical innovation, and regional economic growth.

Enterprise AI &
Operations

Teaching, Learning &
Academic Innovation

Success, Advising &
Support Services

Research, Data,
Governance &
Responsible AI

Workforce,
Economic Mobility &
Industry Partnerships

Innovation
Labs & Showcases

Who should be there?

Academic & Research Leaders Higher education leaders Provosts and faculty Researchers Students

North Carolina A&T's autonomous shuttles driving on the research park track

Technology & Innovation Executives CIOs and technology executives AI startups Entrepreneurs

Industry, Corporate & Solution Providers Corporate partners Technology vendors

N.C. Department of Transportation leaders visiting A&T's robotics lab

Government, Workforce & Economic Development Government representatives Workforce development partners Economic development leaders

For questions or additional information, contact the Nicole Mackie, project manager for Transformations Initiatives at ntmackie@ncat.edu. We look forward to seeing you in Greensboro this September!