Schmidt Sciences Awards $11M to 23 Research Teams for AI in Humanities

On September 13, 2026, Schmidt Sciences awarded $11 million to support up to 23 research teams globally through its Humanities and AI Virtual Institute (HAVI) program. This funding is intended to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence and fields such as archaeology, history, and literature. The initiative aims to uncover new layers of human history and culture by applying advanced AI technologies. Wendy Schmidt, co-founder of Schmidt Sciences, emphasized the potential of these technologies to illuminate the complexities of human existence, from the origins of civilization to contemporary artistic expressions. The program marks a significant step in integrating AI into humanities research, potentially reshaping both scholarship and our collective understanding of humanity.

The context for this initiative is rooted in the difficulties humanities scholars face with existing AI models, which are generally trained on modern languages and contemporary data. The HAVI program addresses these gaps by helping researchers build new models specifically for the humanities. By focusing on ancient languages, three-dimensional artifacts, and culturally specific information, the program seeks to create tools that offer clearer insights into historical contexts. This effort follows a century-long search for improved methodologies and reflects a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary research.

On the ground, the HAVI program functions through collaboration between institutions worldwide. Following several rounds of review by Schmidt Sciences and external experts, the chosen teams reflect a diverse range of projects across various regions and eras. At Sorbonne University, for instance, one project examines the work of Eugene Delacroix, while another at EduceLab applies high-tech instrumentation to cultural heritage artifacts. These efforts highlight a commitment to technological integration and the growth of an academic community dedicated to the study of the past.

The initiative also carries broader social and educational potential. By advancing humanities research, the program may enrich cultural understanding and bring attention to the historical narratives that shape modern life. The use of AI in these disciplines could also create new career paths and educational opportunities for students and scholars. As these projects move forward, they will likely contribute to academic knowledge and encourage public conversation about the value of the humanities in the modern world, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage.

Schmidt Sciences is currently planning the next round of HAVI funding, with applications due by March 31, 2026. This ongoing support highlights the importance of continued investment in interdisciplinary studies. As the program evolves, it may establish new methodologies that further connect technology and the humanities, encouraging future generations to explore where these fields meet. The global reach of the initiative suggests a transformation in humanities research, fostered by innovation and international partnership.