Dallas-Fort Worth is charting its own path in artificial intelligence. From applied AI to groundbreaking research to technical breakthroughs, our region leads in advancing real-world solutions. Behind every breakthrough and real-world solution are the individuals making it happen.

For the second year, Dallas Innovates, in partnership with the Dallas Regional Chamber, will spotlight 75 people leading AI innovation in North Texas.

These local pioneers—from startups, corporations, nonprofits, and research labs—will be revealed at an event during Convergence AI Dallas (April 30-May 1). The annual list of innovators will be published on Dallas Innovates. 

“Last year, we saw just how deep North Texas’ AI community really is,” said Quincy Preston, co-founder and editor of Dallas Innovates. “What struck me most were the individuals behind the innovation—a mix of people driving pioneering AI applications, applied solutions, and serious research. They came from academia, startups, big companies, and enterprise giants that tap into North Texas talent.”

Companies here aren’t just experimenting with AI; they’re putting it to work to solve problems and create value, says Preston. 

Building on success

The AI 75 initiative began when we joined forces with Dallas AI, the region’s largest nonprofit AI professional group with over 5,000 members, and the Dallas Regional Chamber to spotlight AI innovation in North Texas. The program quickly revealed the region’s unique strengths in artificial intelligence.

“We’re truly inspired by the incredible talent we have right here,” said Duane Dankesreiter, senior vice president of research and innovation at the Dallas Regional Chamber, during the reveal of last year’s inaugural class. “These brilliant minds are not just working on AI; they’re changing the game and shaping what’s next.”

Dallas AI’s mission to connect professionals and foster collaboration helped establish the foundation for recognizing the region’s innovators. Now in its second year, the program continues to showcase the people driving AI forward in North Texas.

Who should be nominated?

Being named to the AI 75 means recognition among the region’s most innovative minds shaping the future of AI in Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond. We’re seeking nominations in these seven categories:

AI Visionary: Leaders and thought leaders shaping the future of AI.
AI Maverick: Pioneers inventing novel AI technologies.
AI Transformer: Practitioners revolutionizing industries through AI adoption.
AI Champion: Community leaders and allies supporting the growth of AI.
AI Catalyst: Investors powering advancements in AI innovation.
AI Research Pioneer: Scientists and academics on the cutting edge of new AI discoveries.
AI Impact Innovator: AI for good; socially conscious AI applications.

Eligibility for AI 75 nominations

Eligible individuals are North Texans who have made significant contributions to artificial intelligence in the last 12 months, whether through groundbreaking research, innovative applications, catalytic efforts, or transformative solutions.

• Nominees must be based in North Texas, though their organizations may be headquartered elsewhere
• Contributions must be from the past 12 months
• Previous AI 75 honorees are eligible only if they’ve taken new roles or made significant new contributions.
• Self-nominations and peer nominations are welcome
• Nominations are free and must be submitted online

Go here to nominate. Extended deadline is February 16, 2025.

Submit a strong nomination

To help you put your best insights forward, we offer a preview of the information we need and the questions you’ll answer below.

Whether you’re nominating yourself or someone else, here’s what we want to know:

• Tell us specifically how you/they are advancing AI innovation
• Share concrete examples of impact and vision—and what’s next
• Describe what makes the contribution unique
• Focus on the most significant achievements from the past 12 months
• Pro tip: Use your own words, not press or marketing materials. (You can include those separately for background.)

Nominating someone else? That’s great. Tell us what you find most compelling about their AI work and why they deserve recognition. You don’t need to know every detail—just share what makes them stand out in our business and AI community.

Preview: AI 75 2025 form

Preview sample AI 75 information below, then go here to nominate.

North Texas has the talent, ideas, and momentum to make a lasting impact in AI. Nominate someone now—or nominate yourself—and help us recognize the people turning innovation into action.

The editors of Dallas Innovates will lead the inaugural nomination review and honoree selection process for the 2024 AI 75 program. Our program partner, the Dallas Regional Chamber, will provide strategic guidance and input on the editors’ honoree selections across award categories. Nominees will be reviewed for demonstrated excellence across key criteria, including recent AI innovations, adoption impacts, industry technological advancement, future potential, and contributions to society.

Updated Dec. 15, 2024, with 2025 nomination information and on Jan. 25, 2025, with additional eligibility information.

Feb. 1, 2025: Deadline has been extended to February 15, 2025 from the original deadline of January 31, 2025.