Kansas City, MO, February 5, 2026
Rockhurst University in Kansas City has secured a $1.031 million federal grant aimed at enhancing its artificial intelligence and technology programs. This funding will bolster key tech-focused degree offerings and support workforce development initiatives in the region. With partnerships in place and an emphasis on ethical innovation, the university is poised to cultivate future leaders and strengthen Kansas City’s position as a hub for technology and economic growth.
Kansas City, MO
Rockhurst University Ignites Tech Future with $1 Million AI Grant
Kansas City’s landscape of innovation is set for a significant boost as Rockhurst University secures a substantial federal grant, poised to transform its artificial intelligence and technology programs. This strategic investment in education underscores a commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and equipping future leaders with the skills necessary to drive economic growth and enhance workforce development across the Kansas City region.
The infusion of funds into Rockhurst’s cutting-edge curriculum highlights the critical role of targeted support in cultivating local talent and strengthening the region’s position as a hub for technological advancement. Such initiatives are instrumental in creating pathways for personal achievement and ensuring Kansas City remains a vibrant center for Missouri MO entrepreneurs and thriving businesses.
A Strategic Investment in Kansas City’s Future
Rockhurst University has received over $1 million in federal Community Project Funding, specifically $1.031 million, to establish new programs and facilities that will bolster artificial intelligence and technology education in the Kansas City region. This significant allocation is part of House Resolution 6938, known as the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act 2026. The Act includes over $10 million in funding designated for various projects within Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District.
The grant funding is earmarked for crucial capital improvements and the expansion of personnel dedicated to the university’s tech-focused degree programs. This investment reflects a forward-thinking approach to meet the evolving demands of the technology sector, directly benefiting the Kansas City MO business community.
Bolstering Key Technology Programs
The federal funding will enable Rockhurst University to significantly enhance and expand its existing tech-focused degree programs. These include pivotal areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, information systems, computer science, and financial analytics. The university has already begun integrating AI and other emerging technologies into its graduate business programs, demonstrating a proactive stance in adapting to technological shifts.
Notably, in Fall 2026, the university’s Master of Science in Data Analytics degree is slated to evolve into the Master of Science in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence. This updated program will offer students two distinct tracks: a programming-focused data science and AI track, and an applications and strategy-focused business analytics track. Furthermore, the data strategy and leadership graduate certificate will transform into the AI and tech strategy and leadership certificate, and the data science graduate certificate will become the data science & AI graduate certificate.
Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders and Workforce
This initiative is critical for meeting the increasing demand for leaders in AI and cybersecurity not only within the Kansas City region but also beyond. The university emphasizes that this effort is fundamentally about workforce development and, more broadly, about fostering economic development for Kansas City’s future.
The Kansas City small business ecosystem and larger corporations alike stand to benefit from a more robust local talent pool. The Kansas City region is currently home to more than 3,800 tech employees, representing one in every ten workers in Kansas City. This highlights the existing strength of the local tech sector and the potential for further growth through enhanced educational opportunities. In recognition of the region’s burgeoning technological landscape, the U.S. Economic Development Administration designated the Kansas City region and the state of Missouri as “tech hubs” in 2023.
Collaboration for Regional Prosperity
Rockhurst University’s commitment to strengthening the tech workforce is further evidenced by its ongoing partnerships with key regional entities. The university collaborates with organizations such as the Kansas City Area Development Council and the Kansas City Tech Council. These partnerships are instrumental in developing degrees and certificates that are thoughtfully designed to consider present-day industry needs and long-term job growth trends within the region. Such collaborative efforts are vital for sustainable Midlands economic growth and ensuring that educational programs directly align with market demands.
Ethical Innovation in Academia
Rockhurst faculty members are actively engaged in integrating artificial intelligence into their teaching and research, carefully balancing innovation with ethical considerations. Professors at Rockhurst have already identified practical applications for AI across various disciplines. For instance, AI is being utilized to provide crucial background information and help interpret challenging texts. In data science, generative AI models assist with prediction, forecasting, and curating datasets. Additionally, AI has proven helpful in areas such as healthcare and fraud detection by generating synthetic data and identifying patterns. Some faculty members also find AI particularly beneficial for pre-research and idea generation, especially when students are initiating new projects.
The significant federal grant awarded to Rockhurst University represents a powerful investment in the future of Kansas City. By bolstering its AI and technology programs, the university is poised to cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators, driving both workforce and economic development in the region. This commitment to advanced education, entrepreneurial innovation, and strategic partnerships will undoubtedly contribute to the sustained prosperity of Kansas City. We encourage all residents and businesses to recognize and support the vital role of local educational institutions in shaping our collective economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount of the grant Rockhurst University received for new AI and tech programs?
Rockhurst University received $1.031 million in federal Community Project Funding.
What is the source of this grant funding?
The grant funding is part of House Resolution 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act 2026.
How will the grant funds be utilized by Rockhurst University?
The funds will be used for capital improvements and personnel to expand tech-focused degree programs.
Which specific programs will be bolstered by this grant?
Programs to be bolstered include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, information systems, computer science, and financial analytics.
What changes are expected for Rockhurst University’s Master of Science in Data Analytics degree?
In Fall 2026, the Master of Science in Data Analytics degree will become the Master of Science in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, offering a programming-focused data science and AI track, and an applications and strategy-focused business analytics track.
How many tech employees are in the Kansas City region?
The Kansas City region is currently home to more than 3,800 tech employees, including one in every 10 workers in Kansas City.
When was the Kansas City region designated a “tech hub”?
The U.S. Economic Development Administration designated the Kansas City region and the state of Missouri as “tech hubs” in 2023.
Key Features of the Rockhurst University Tech Grant
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $1.031 million | Kansas City region |
| Funding Source | Federal Community Project Funding (House Resolution 6938) | Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District |
| Utilization of Funds | Capital improvements and personnel for tech programs | Kansas City region |
| Programs Bolstered | Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, information systems, computer science, financial analytics | Kansas City region |
| Master’s Degree Change | MS in Data Analytics to MS in Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (Fall 2026) | Kansas City region |
| Tech Workforce in KC | Over 3,800 tech employees; 1 in 10 workers | Kansas City region |
| “Tech Hub” Designation | Kansas City region and state of Missouri designated in 2023 | State-level |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson 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 American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
