Google has unveiled plans to establish a support fund worth 25 million euros ($26.9 million) aimed at bolstering skills training for Europeans in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).
Dubbed the European AI Opportunities Initiative, the endeavor seeks to facilitate training initiatives enabling individuals to harness the potential of AI at a time when Europe is at the forefront of leveraging AI for economic advancements.
"We aim to contribute to empowering Europe's workforce, assisting individuals through transitions to ensure widespread benefits," Google stated.
The tech giant emphasized that the initiative is collaborating with EU governments, civil society, academia, and businesses to furnish local startups with advanced AI training, with a particular emphasis on underprivileged communities. Approximately €10 million will be allocated to equip workers with the requisite skills to avoid being left behind. A similar initiative was launched by the Italian government in mid-2023, earmarking millions of euros to foster digital skills for workers facing job displacement due to automation and AI.
Google noted that the AI initiative builds upon the success of its 2015 program, "Grow with Google," which provided complimentary training to help alleviate the EU's digital skills deficit. The initiative purportedly trained over 12 million individuals. Additionally, the latest endeavor encompasses a collaboration with the Center for Public Impact (CPI), inviting applications from EU social enterprises and nonprofit organizations to ensure widespread accessibility to AI training.
Adrian Brown, Executive Director of CPI, underscored the vast potential of artificial intelligence to "transform the world" while warning of its potential to exacerbate inequality. Brown expressed optimism that the new initiative will facilitate the development of AI knowledge, skills, and confidence across Europe, ensuring inclusivity.
Google is also broadening the language options for its AI Fundamentals course to 18 and has announced plans to enhance its Google Career Certificate program, enabling professionals to gain practical experience in applying AI to workplace scenarios.
Meanwhile, local regulators are gearing up to finalize the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, which will govern the use and development of AI technology within the EU's legal jurisdiction.
