Paul Allen enlists machine-learning tools for monitoring wildlife and ecosystems

Paul Allen has made a name for himself as a co-founder of Microsoft, a supporter of artificial intelligence research and a contributor to causes such as wildlife conservation -- so it only makes sense that the Seattle-area billionaire wants to use machine learning to further his philanthropic goals. His latest contribution comes through the Seattle-based Vulcan Machine Learning Center for Impact, or VMLCI. "Its mission will be to apply the tools of machine learning and AI for good," Bill Hilf, CEO of Paul Allen's Vulcan Inc., said today in a tweet. VMLCI's strategy meshes with the mission of the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence, whose motto is "AI for the Common Good." The center aims to forge collaborative partnerships with corporations, academic institutions and other organizations to help connect folks working on social and environmental causes with the machine-learning resources they need.