When graduate student Dmitrii Tuzov ’26 MS heard about an opportunity to learn about decentralized AI (deAI) from experts in the field, and potentially create business-enhancing technology, he couldn’t have been more excited.

“My first reaction was, ‘Definitely! That’s what I want to do,’’’ he says. Now in the early stages of the project, he and four other UConn graduate students are learning technical skills, setting goals, and defining the scope of their work. “The deeper I dive, the more I see how big this opportunity is.’’

Although their work is proprietary, Tuzov thinks it could be a business gamechanger.

‘Academic Pioneer’ UConn Among the First to Offer This Experience

UConn is among the first academic institutions to offer students experiential learning using the decentralized artificial intelligence network known as Bittensor. The University has partnered on the project with Yuma, a DCG company based in Stamford that’s focused on decentralized AI, and a core partner in the Bittensor network.

The project, called “BittBridge,’’ involves graduate students from a variety of fields, ranging from financial technology to sports analytics.

“The launch of BittBridge underscores UConn’s role as an academic pioneer, providing students with cutting-edge experiences in decentralized AI and blockchain technology,’’ says School of Business Interim Dean Greg Reilly. “In a rapidly evolving technological field, the best way to prepare our students is to immerse them in real-world innovation.’’

Barry Silbert, founder and CEO of both Yuma and DCG, is also excited to welcome new innovators. Yuma, whose mission is to create positive economic and societal change by connecting transformative ideas with AI, will provide onboarding, technical mentorship, and operational support to the BittBridge team.

“The transformative power of AI shouldn’t be limited to a few tech giants or well-funded companies with massive compute access,’’ Silbert says. “Our partnership with UConn represents a significant step in building pathways so the next wave of talent—including students and builders across disciplines—can enter decentralized AI and help shape the outcomes of this extraordinary technology.’’

Evan Malanga ’10 (BUS), chief revenue officer at Yuma, also played a key role in shaping the BittBridge program, bringing the partnership full circle.

Partnership is Extraordinary

The Yuma team has been supportive and flexible and allows students to set their own goals, says Tuzov, who is working toward a degree in business analytics and project management.

“I believe it is a big opportunity not only technically but a great hands-on experience with a real-world project,’’ he says. “We’re working with specialists on the cutting edge. I’m really honored to be working with this amazing team of students and professionals, who are dedicated to solving business problems.’’

Professor Dave Wanik, who is leading the student team, says he is enthusiastic about the collaboration and the potential outcome.

“My five students and I are thrilled to collaborate with Yuma and engage with both the technology and the broader deAI community,’’ he says. “This partnership offers a unique opportunity for students to work alongside experienced AI and machine learning engineers, sharpen their software development skills, and contribute to real-world innovation. I can’t wait to see what the students will do with this incredible opportunity.”