In this section the following words have the meanings indicated. “Hub” means a Maryland Technology Extension Hub. “Partnership” means the Maryland Artificial Intelligence Partnership. “Plan” means the Maryland State Artificial Intelligence Strategic Plan. There is a Maryland Artificial Intelligence Partnership in the University System of Maryland. The purpose of the Partnership is to provide a single nexus for stakeholders in artificial intelligence initiatives to advance the innovation, economic growth, workforce development, and public good across the State. The Partnership shall: Connect, accelerate, and scale artificial intelligence initiatives; Leverage resources to increase the State’s artificial intelligence–trained workforce and to integrate the use of artificial intelligence in State government; Identify and pursue funding opportunities across all resources, including federal, State, industry, and philanthropic entities; and Establish Maryland Technology Extension Hubs in accordance with subsection (d) of this section. In carrying out the powers and duties granted under this section, the Partnership shall consult with: State agencies; Institutions of higher education in the State; The Maryland Small Business Development Center; and The local workforce development boards. There is a Director in the Partnership. On or before December 1, 2026, the Partnership shall develop a strategic Plan. The Plan shall include: Metrics for the goals of increasing the core areas of artificial intelligence literacy, workforce development, business development, and research and innovation; A business plan and timeline for the development of Hubs, including necessary funding and partnerships, and how to provide artificial intelligence skills training to individuals at little or no cost; A business plan and timeline for the development of the Artificial Intelligence Incubation Lab under § 12–126 of this subtitle, to be established in consultation with the Governor’s Artificial Intelligence Subcabinet established under § 3.5–806 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; An analysis of scholarship and fellowship needs and opportunities to expand access and workforce experience opportunities in artificial intelligence; and A business plan and model for the Partnership to ensure sustained impact. On or before December 1, 2027, and each December 1 thereafter, the Partnership shall submit a progress report on achieving the Plan. The Partnership shall submit the reports required under this subsection to: The Governor; and In accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly. The Partnership shall establish Maryland Technology Extension Hubs in strategic locations. To the extent consistent and practicable with the Maryland Department of Labor’s strategic priorities and resources, the Maryland Department of Labor may collaborate with the Partnership on establishing the Hubs. The Hubs shall prioritize artificial intelligence but may broaden to additional sectors as appropriate. On or before December 15, 2027, there shall be one Hub in each of three regions of the State established on a pilot basis. Each Hub shall: Act as a single point of contact to connect small businesses with critical artificial intelligence resources; Partner with organizations, including a community college, local employers, small business associations, and community organizers; and Facilitate remote, cloud–based access to critical infrastructure, including leveraging the significant computing power of colleges and universities.