OORT, a decentralized AI cloud platform, is collaborating with the US National Science Foundation’s (NSF) eCAT (Electric, Connected, and Autonomous Technologies for Mobility) IUCRC research center, according to a recent statement shared with CryptoSlate.

OORT stated that this collaboration represents a key milestone in developing next-generation technologies—including electrification, resilient sensing, real-time edge computing, and smart infrastructure—to improve the safety and efficiency of electric, connected, and autonomous vehicles.

The project began on July 10 and involved collaboration with several leading US universities like Wayne State University, Clarkson University, the University of North Texas, the University of Delaware, and Oakland University.

The focus will be on “Research Thrust #4: Infrastructure for Connectivity and Safety.” OORT said its products, including the OORT DataHub and OORT Storage, will play an integral role in the research.

In addition, OORT plans to collaborate with American data storage leader Western Digital to combine cutting-edge technology with industry expertise and explore the potential of AI and mobility innovations.

OORT CEO Max Li expressed enthusiasm about applying decentralization technology to real-world products, starting with autonomous vehicles. Li added:

“Decentralization technology has immense potential, and we are excited to see it applied in real-world products, with autonomous vehicles being an ideal starting point.”

Meanwhile, Caisheng Wang, director of the eCAT Center at Wayne State University, emphasized the importance of the partnership and its potential to advance next-generation mobility technologies and maintain US leadership in this crucial field.

The NSF funds 25% of all federally supported research at US universities, backed by a $9.9 billion annual budget. NSF’s influence spans from AI and autonomous vehicles to space exploration, shaping the future of science and technology.

Through the Industry-University Cooperative Research Centers (IUCRC) program, the NSF fosters collaboration between universities and industries.

Meanwhile, this initiative follows OORT’s recent expansion into Asia. A few weeks ago, the company joined China’s Shenzhen Data Exchange to make its products available in the region.

Decentralized AI cloud platform OORT has joined China’s leading data trading hub, the Shenzhen Data Exchange, to expand its presence in Asia, according to a press statement shared with CryptoSlate.

This move allows it to provide its services —including OORT DataHub and OORT AI— to various industries. OORT DataHub will deliver AI datasets, equipping companies with essential resources to innovate and scale. Meanwhile, OORT AI will simplify the integration of AI agents into business operations.

OORT attributes its expanded reach to China’s commitment to AI innovation. The listing follows the recent launch of OORT DataHub and adds Shenzhen to its partner network, including Dell, Lenovo, Tencent, and Storj.

The Shenzhen Data Exchange facilitates regional and international data flows, supporting China’s digital economy.

In June, it became the first Chinese platform to surpass 10 billion Yuan in trading volume, reaching 10.539 billion Yuan (approximately $1.48 billion). It has listed 2,263 items across more than 70 industries and 265 use cases, contributing significantly to cross-border data exchange.

OORT’s Founder and CEO, Max Li, emphasized the strategic benefits of the listing on the exchange. He stated:

“With China being home to the largest number of AI companies globally, the data exchange provides a robust platform for OORT’s products to facilitate the development and growth of these companies for public goods.”

Similarly, Zhao Yang, the Deputy General Manager of the Shenzhen Data Exchange, highlighted the value of OORT’s listing to its increasing client base.

Microsoft servers to join OORT mainnet as validators

On Aug. 16, Microsoft servers will officially become validators on the OORT mainnet, integrating into the network’s layer-1 “Olympus Protocol.” This addition will bolster network stability and security as OORT expands.

OORT announced that investors will stake approximately 10 million OORT tokens from the upcoming distribution to support these Microsoft servers. In return, they will earn validator rewards, which align their gains with the growth of the OORT ecosystem.