CCST Launches AI Policy Initiative, Thanks to Irwin Jacobs & Matching Gift

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Council on Science and Technology is excited to share a special opportunity to support California’s future in artificial intelligence (AI) policy, inspired by the generous series of annual gifts from Irwin Jacobs.

In honor of Irwin Jacobs’ birthday on October 18, CCST announced the launch of the Irwin Jacobs & Family AI Policy Funding Campaign. In addition to a $25,000 seed donation from the Jacobs Family Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation, CCST Board Chair Peter Cowhey provided a matching gift to further advance the CCST AI Policy Initiative.

“Irwin Jacobs is a longtime friend. His leadership in innovation has produced transformative work in science and technology, even as he has championed thoughtful public policy discussions about technology,” said Cowhey. “In celebration of his birthday, I am delighted to amplify Irwin’s efforts by supporting this initiative that will help shape AI policy in California and beyond.”

With these gifts, CCST is expanding its vision of the CCST AI Policy Initiative to include:

• Funding CCST Science & Technology Policy Fellows specializing in AI and data science to work directly with state leaders.
• Expanding access to expertise and support for legislative staff to equip them with the latest knowledge on AI technologies through trainings, expert briefings, and site visits.
• Facilitating AI policy sessions at leading national conferences.

Contributors to the Irwin Jacobs & Family AI Policy Funding Campaign will help ensure that California remains at the forefront of ethical, forward-thinking AI policy.

“CCST is so fortunate to have the support and generosity of both Irwin Jacobs and Peter Cowhey, as we further our work in the AI space at a time when trustworthy, nonpartisan expertise is more vital than ever,” said CCST CEO Julianne McCall. “With this groundbreaking initiative, we can help California leaders create a responsible foundation for AI policy, with the potential to also inform national approaches to AI governance.”

CCST will share more details and opportunities to contribute to this campaign during Giving Tuesday, an annual giving event the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

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About the California Council on Science and Technology
The California Council on Science and Technology is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization established via the California State Legislature in 1988. CCST responds to the Governor, the Legislature, and other State entities who request independent assessment of public policy issues affecting the State of California relating to science and technology. CCST engages leading experts in science and technology to advise state policymakers—ensuring that California policy is strengthened and informed by scientific knowledge, research, and innovation.