Google funds $26M for AI skills training in Europe
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — Google has announced a €25 million (US$26.8 million) AI Opportunity Initiative to provide extensive AI skills training across Europe to ensure broad societal participation in AI advancements.
The program, in partnership with the Centre for Public Impact, builds on Google’s “Grow with Google” digital skills initiative launched in 2015, which has trained over 12 million Europeans. The new funding from Google.org will aid groups vulnerable to economic disruption from AI by offering cash grants and childcare support or compensation.
“AI has enormous potential to transform the world for the better. Yet research shows that the benefits of AI could exacerbate existing inequalities — especially in terms of economic security and employment,” said Adrian Brown, Centre for Public Impact Executive Director.
“This new program will help people across Europe develop their knowledge, skills and confidence around AI, ensuring that no one is left behind.”
Additionally, Google is planning a new startup called “Growth Academy” in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, which will offer mentoring and support for AI healthcare, education, and cybersecurity ventures.
Applications are open for Growth Academy: AI for Health.
Who's eligible: startups in Europe, the Middle East and Africa using #AI to build in the healthcare and wellbeing industry.
Check out program details and apply by March 1: https://t.co/Jai6cDp2GF pic.twitter.com/jACJLq3fST
— Google for Startups (@GoogleStartups) February 12, 2024
Complementing these targeted efforts, free introductory AI courses provided by Google will expand to 18 languages to promote inclusive access to AI literacy. Google also intends to enhance its Career Certificates program with more AI-related content to help professionals utilize AI on the job.
“Europe can lead the way in harnessing AI to create a strong and equitable economy — with more productive industries, more meaningful work and many new kinds of jobs,” said Matt Brittin, Google Europe, Middle East and Africa President.
“We want to play our part in empowering Europe’s workforce, supporting people through change, so that everyone can benefit.”
Last month, Google announced its $1 billion investment in a new UK data center in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire.
“Once complete, this investment will bring crucial compute capacity to businesses across the UK, supporting AI innovation and helping to ensure reliable digital services to Google Cloud customers and Google users in the UK and abroad,” said Google.
