Donna Ennis

Donna M. Ennis provides leadership across all EI² units to develop collaborative funding opportunities and provide support and services to ensure the integration of all communities into programs and services. She oversees the Center for Economic Development Research and the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation and co-directs the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (Georgia AIM) project funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration. She is also leading the establishment of EI²’s Workforce Center of Excellence, a new initiative to harness the best practices, research, and technical assistance in workforce development. Georgia AIM leverages a statewide network of over 100 partners for the development and deployment of talent and innovation in AI for all manufacturing sectors. Ennis is Georgia AIM’s Director of Community-based Engagement, ensuring that the project impacts all of Georgia. Through innovation, collaboration, education, and participation, Georgia AIM is providing the tools and knowledge to empower all communities to fully participate in a robust AI manufacturing workforce. To date, Georgia AIM has served nearly 1,000 small and medium manufacturers, connected more than 7,000 Georgia K-12 students to STEM programs, and sparked AI-focused outreach and innovations in more than 100 Georgia communities. Ennis also serves as the operator representative for the Georgia Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center, providing strategic direction and operational oversight to this 22-year-old program. Under Ennis’ leadership, MBDA programs have helped companies generate over $6.4 billion in contracts, financing, and sales, and create or retain more than 7,000 jobs.