Announcing the AI Opportunity Fund recipients

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing economies worldwide, and Europe has an incredible opportunity to embrace this transformation. With AI projected to add up to €1.2 trillion to the EU’s GDP over the next decade, this technology could profoundly shape Europe’s future—if we ensure its benefits reach every community, large and small. That’s why, with support from Google.org, the AI Opportunity Fund was established: to invest in Europe’s greatest asset—its people. By equipping individuals across diverse communities with essential AI skills, we’re laying the foundations for a future where technology drives resilience, social mobility, and economic growth for everyone.

Now, we’re thrilled to be able to announce the 80 organizations selected as recipients of the AI Opportunity Fund. These organizations, chosen from hundreds of applications, will receive dedicated AI training, support, and a share of €15 million to bring critical AI skills to those who need it most. Together, they will reach 20,000 workers across 24 European countries, empowering individuals to harness AI’s potential in their local contexts.

AI as a catalyst for regional empowerment and economic resilience 

One of the most vital insights was AI’s potential to bridge the gap between urban and rural communities, helping underserved areas to thrive. An incredible 78% of applications focused on upskilling people outside of major cities to address the growing urban-rural divide. For example, in Greece, Bizrupt is providing AI training to underemployed women in rural Crete, while Romania’s Progress Foundation Bistrita is equipping rural librarians and cultural coordinators with essential digital skills to enhance local community services 

Evidence from around the world shows that small businesses are already seeing productivity gains from AI, proving that technology can bring new life to local economies and create jobs in areas that technology often overlooks. By making AI skills accessible to all and nurturing local talent, Europe can foster a more resilient, balanced economy that brings growth and opportunity to people in every community.

AI training as a driver for social mobility and economic inclusion 

Many applications showed us how AI skills can support social mobility and inclusion, especially for groups facing unique challenges—such as women, rural residents, migrants, and disabled individuals. These groups often face extra financial, geographical, or social barriers, making it harder to access upskilling opportunities. However, applicants saw AI as a game-changer in breaking down entrenched barriers,  promoting economic inclusion and leveling the playing field for all. For example, the UK’s Code Your Future is providing refugees with AI training to enhance their job prospects and support integration into the tech sector. Meanwhile, France’s Ares Association is helping disabled individuals, along with other underserved groups, gain essential AI skills to improve employability and enhance social inclusion, creating new pathways to economic mobility.

By equipping underserved communities with relevant AI skills, the Fund aims to future-proof careers and ensure that AI-driven economic growth benefits everyone. As 61% of jobs are expected to work alongside AI rather than be replaced by it, these skills can help unlock human potential, support job creation, and foster a fairer, more inclusive economy.

Building broader skills for decision-making, experimentation, and learning

We realized that AI skills training is about more than just learning to use the technology—it’s about empowering people with broader, foundational skills like critical thinking, self-awareness, and a love of learning. AI has the potential to help individuals understand their unique strengths, identify growth areas, and see how AI can enhance their abilities. It’s about giving people the confidence to approach challenges creatively, make thoughtful, data-driven decisions, and continuously adapt to new situations. 

When people can recognize their unique skills—whether it’s creativity, empathy, strategic thinking, or problem-solving—they can see AI as a tool that complements and amplifies their strengths. The Fund’s initiatives go beyond technical skills, building a workforce that knows when AI can be a “superpower” and when it’s best to rely on human judgment. This adaptable, lifelong learning focus builds resilience, confidence, and the capacity to make a meaningful impact within their own communities—whether they’re farmers in rural Spain or artists in southern Hungary.

Building AI literacy to address fears and increase societal trust and engagement  

Despite AI’s promise, many applicants noted a sense of uncertainty or apprehension among their intended beneficiaries, especially those in sectors highly impacted by technological change—such as digital media, public service, and agriculture. They stressed that building foundational AI literacy is essential to dispel myths, build trust, and help people see AI as an opportunity rather than a threat. 

The Fund emphasizes a positive narrative: by demystifying AI, providing tangible skills, and fostering understanding, we can empower individuals to engage with AI confidently. For example, the Danish Dyslexia Association is equipping workers with dyslexia with foundational AI skills, transforming initial apprehensions about technology into tools for more inclusive communication and workplace adaptability. Similarly, the UK’s Digital Boost Upskilling project is supporting micro and solo entrepreneurs across England and Scotland, teaching them practical AI applications to strengthen their businesses and adapt to economic changes. By turning uncertainty into proactive engagement, these projects empower communities to shape AI’s impact on their work, lives, and society.

Looking ahead: The impact of the AI Opportunity Fund

The AI Opportunity Fund is setting the stage for a Europe where AI-driven growth is accessible to all, no matter where they live or their background. This is essential for the EU’s long-term competitiveness on the global stage. From projects empowering women in rural Spain with AI skills relevant to agriculture and tourism to initiatives supporting disabled workers in Poland through accessible, remote-friendly training, each project embodies the vision of AI as a force for equitable progress. 

In Germany, refugees and migrant communities are gaining AI training paired with language support to help them integrate into the workforce. While in Finland, older adults in rural regions are being introduced to foundational AI skills that foster digital literacy and social engagement. Meanwhile, a project in underserved French suburbs is offering young people hands-on AI training and mentorship to bridge educational gaps and open pathways to high-paying tech roles.

The lessons learned from the Fund’s application process and the vision embodied by each recipient make one thing clear. AI skills are more than just a tool for employability—they’re the foundation for a Europe where technology amplifies human potential, spurs economic resilience, and drives social progress.