Utah is setting its sights on some of the state’s most difficult challenges through the Utah AI Moonshot, a $5 million grant fund designed to connect university researchers with industry partners and put artificial intelligence to work for Utah.

In a recent conversation, Utah Commissioner of Higher Education Geoffrey Landward explains that the initiative is meant to pursue problems that may once have seemed unsolvable. As AI capabilities continue to advance, the Moonshot creates an opportunity for Utah’s brightest minds to develop bold, practical solutions.

The effort is grounded in Utah’s “pro-human AI” approach. That means evaluating technology by how well it improves people’s lives, strengthens communities and addresses real needs. Potential areas of focus include frontline health care, water scarcity, the environment and pollution.

Interest has already been strong, with hundreds of applications anticipated from university researchers working alongside industry partners. That collaboration is a promising sign of Utah’s ability to lead—not only in developing AI, but in using it responsibly and productively.

Success will be measured by results. Moonshot proposals must identify a specific problem, explain how AI can help and demonstrate a meaningful impact within three to five years or sooner.

The application deadline is October 15, with funded projects expected to be announced at the Pro-Human AI Summit on December 7.