The Applied Computing Institute (ACI) at Grand Valley State University's College of Computing bridges the gap between academia and industry. Through real-world, industry-sponsored projects, students and faculty collaborate with leading organizations to solve meaningful computing challenges.

ACI provides hands-on opportunities that prepare students for today's tech-driven careers while giving industry partners access to the latest expertise in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.

Click the button below to learn more about the ACI or contact us directly.

What We Do

ACI brings together faculty, students, and industry partners to collaborate on applied research, product development, and technology innovation. Through these partnerships, ACI helps organizations explore new ideas, develop custom solutions, and advance their use of computing technologies.

Our initiatives include:

Industry-Sponsored Projects: Real-world software, data, and computing challenges tackled by student–faculty teams.
Internship and Capstone Integration: Connecting coursework with practical experience in industry settings.
Applied Research Collaboration: Faculty-led projects exploring emerging technologies and innovative applications.

Areas of Expertise

ACI's work spans a wide range of computing fields, including:

Software and systems development
Data science and analytics
Cybersecurity
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
Mobile and web applications
Health informatics and bioinformatics

Why Partner with ACI?

Collaborating with ACI gives organizations access to talented students, expert faculty, and the latest advancements in computing. Our partnerships create opportunities for innovation, workforce development, and meaningful community impact.

Want To Collaborate?

Is your organization interested in collaborating with GVSU's Applied Computing Institute? Do you have a computing problem and need expertise?

Industry Partner Opportunities

Want To Be Involved?

Are you a GVSU student interested in being involved in the Applied Computing Institute? Learn more about what opportunities exist by clicking the button below!

Student Opportunities

ACI Blog

GVSU Researchers Harness Drones and AI to Combat Invasive Tree Diseases in Michigan

GVSU's Dr. Rahat Ibn Rafiq aDr. Rahat Ibn Rafiq and his research team, including graduate assistant Muttaki Bismoy leads a project using drones and AI to protect Michigan forests from invasive diseases, partnering with the DNR, Grand Haven, and Kalamazoo.

DeBruine launches bioinformatics startup Herd Social

Dr. Zach DeBruine, an College of Computing faculty mentor and researcher in GVSU's Applied Computing Institute launches a startup Herd Social that fosters community and learning around rare diseases.