Pennsylvania Ranks Among the Fastest-Growing States for AI and Data Centers
Roland NicholsA new national study confirms what leaders across Pennsylvania’s technology ecosystem are seeing firsthand. AI-driven growth is accelerating across the Commonwealth and across the nation.
The American Edge Project (AEP), in partnership with the Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) and its local affiliates, recently released America’s AI Surge: Powering Investment, Jobs, and Growth in Every State. The report provides one of the first comprehensive, state-by-state analyses of how AI is driving investment, job creation, and infrastructure development nationwide.
Among its findings, Pennsylvania ranks as the fourth fastest-growing state for data center development, reinforcing the Commonwealth’s expanding role in America’s AI economy.
AI Is Now a 50-State Economic Engine
The study highlights the scale and speed of AI’s economic impact across the country:
- $560 billion in AI-related venture investment across 27,000 deals since 2019
- Tech jobs growing 2.5 times faster than the overall economy
- 4,100+ active data centers nationwide, with nearly 2,800 more in development
- New data centers projected to support 5.4 million jobs and generate $27 billion in state and local tax revenue
For Pennsylvania, this momentum represents significant opportunity, from workforce growth to long-term infrastructure investment that supports innovation across regions.
“Pennsylvania’s rise as one of the fastest-growing states for data center development shows that the Commonwealth is becoming a critical hub for AI-driven investment, infrastructure, and job creation.”
Dean Miller, President and CEO, PACT
Leadership, Collaboration, and What Comes Next
The report also identifies a growing policy challenge. More than 1,100 state-level AI bills introduced in 2025 could slow innovation if regulations become fragmented or misaligned. The study calls for coordinated national and state strategies to modernize infrastructure, strengthen workforce pipelines, and support responsible AI innovation.
PACT is proud to help elevate Pennsylvania’s voice in this national conversation. PACT President and CEO Dean Miller serves as Chair of TECNA, which co-produced the report alongside the American Edge Project. This role ensures Pennsylvania’s technology community plays a leadership role in shaping the future of AI policy and growth.
“As AI growth accelerates nationwide, coordinated policy and collaboration are essential to ensure innovation continues to thrive. Through TECNA, Pennsylvania is helping shape a balanced national approach that supports competitiveness, workforce growth, and responsible AI adoption.”
Dean Miller
PACT will continue working with partners across the state, including the Pittsburgh Technology Council, to further analyze AI and data center growth in Pennsylvania and advocate for policies that keep the Commonwealth competitive in the AI-driven economy.
Read the full report: America’s AI Surge: Powering Investment, Jobs, and Growth in Every State
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