“Today we are launching the AI Opportunity Initiative for Europe, to help provide training and skills to help people and countries succeed in seizing AI opportunities,” says Google. An announcement which follows another initiative dated 2015, “Grow with Google”offering free training to help close the digital skills gap in the EU.
Google says it has trained more than 12 million people in Europe in digital skills, in partnership with governments, small business associations, unions, NGOs and local communities. Today, the tech giant is taking a further step in its commitment to Europe with funding of 25 million euros ($26.98 million). Initially, 10 million will be dedicated “to equip workers with the skills they need to avoid being left behind”, assures Google.
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A call launched to social enterprises and non-profit organizations
Google's program includes “searching for social enterprises and non-profit organizations that can help us reach the people most likely to benefit from this training.” Selected organizations will receive tailored, facilitated training on AI fundamentals in local languages, delivered directly to workers as well as cash grants for essential wraparound support, such as childcare or salary compensation, to to eliminate any obstacles to learning.
The firm also indicates that basic AI courses will now be available in 18 languages. The courses are free and accessible to everyone, with a series of introductory AI skills modules to help individuals and businesses gain practical skills and knowledge. In addition, it is evolving its Google Career Certificate program, lasting three to six months and providing a professional certificate.
Support for European start-ups
Start-ups should also benefit from support from the Mountain View firm through its “Google for Startups Growth Academies” program. The non-equity program aims to support start-ups using AI to solve societal problems, in the fields of health, education and cybersecurity. He proposes to help start-ups to “increase their number of users, scale and go global with Google products, best practices and expert connections”.
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