Microsoft commits $40M to AI for Health initiative

Microsoft unveiled the details of its latest effort as part of its $165 million AI for Good program. The company plans to spend $40 million over the next five years to support research and public health efforts under its new AI for Health initiative. Microsoft shared its plans on Wednesday, which include giving nonprofits and academic researchers access to the company’s AI tools, cloud computing resources, and collaboration with the company’s data scientists. Certain projects will also be able to receive cash grants. “There are real health issues in which AI can play an important role, and it may be our best option to accelerate research or expand the reach of new solutions, especially in areas that may lack attention from the commercial health sector,” Microsoft’s Chief Data Analytics Officer John Kahan wrote in a blog post.