Google set to invest $27 million to push AI skill training in Europe

Google recently unveiled plans to launch a 25 million euro ($26.9 million) support fund aimed at bolstering skill training for individuals in Europe, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative, known as the AI Opportunity Initiative for Europe, seeks to provide training opportunities to enable people to harness the potential of AI, especially as Europe positions itself as a leader in leveraging AI for economic growth.

Google to advance AI skills in Europe with its initiative

The tech giant aims to play a role in empowering Europe’s workforce by assisting individuals through transitions and ensuring widespread benefits from AI advancements. To achieve this goal, Google is collaborating with various stakeholders, including European Union governments, civil society groups, academic institutions, and businesses.

Together, they aim to offer advanced AI training to local startups, with an emphasis on supporting vulnerable communities. A significant portion of the fund, approximately 10 million euros, will be allocated to equip workers with the necessary skills to navigate the evolving landscape of AI and avoid being left behind.

This initiative reflects similar efforts initiated by the Italian government in mid-2023, which allocated substantial funding towards enhancing digital skills among workers at risk of displacement due to automation and AI integration. Google’s AI program builds upon the success of its earlier initiative, “Grow with Google,” launched in 2015, which provided free training opportunities to address the digital skills gap across the EU.

Over 12 million individuals benefited from this program, underscoring the importance of continued investment in skills development to keep pace with technological advancements. Furthermore, Google has partnered with the Centre for Public Impact (CPI) to broaden the reach of AI training initiatives.

Collaborative efforts and inclusion training initiatives

Through this collaboration, Google aims to engage EU-based social enterprises and nonprofits to ensure that AI knowledge and skills are accessible to a diverse range of individuals. Adrian Brown, Executive Director of CPI, highlighted the transformative potential of AI while emphasizing the importance of mitigating potential inequality gaps through targeted training initiatives.

The expansion of Google’s AI foundational course to include 18 languages and the enhancement of resources within the Google Career Certificates program demonstrate the company’s commitment to facilitating hands-on experience with AI applications in various workplace scenarios.

These efforts align with ongoing regulatory developments within the EU, particularly the forthcoming EU AI Act, which seeks to regulate the use and development of AI technologies within the region’s legal framework. Google’s announcement of the AI Opportunity Initiative for Europe represents a significant investment in fostering AI skills and capabilities across the continent.

By collaborating with diverse stakeholders and prioritizing inclusivity, Google aims to ensure that individuals from all backgrounds can leverage the opportunities presented by AI advancements, thereby contributing to economic growth and societal well-being.