Good Things secures £1.1 Million from Google.org to equip UK Workers with essential AI skills

The funding addresses the dual challenge of the UK’s significant digital skills gap and the critical need for training amidst the AI-driven transformation of jobs. Research indicates that jobs in areas such as administrative support, customer service, and data entry are highly exposed to automation, making targeted reskilling critical to prevent future digital exclusion and economic hardship.

This ambitious project, which will run until January 2028, aims to safeguard employability and strengthen workforce resilience by focusing on people who are currently employed or between jobs that are most exposed to AI. 

Key outcomes of the project include:

• Expanded access to AI skills: At least 11,250 low-skilled workers will complete a Google AI Professional certificate in local community settings, supported by wraparound assistance to ensure course completion, building foundational skills relevant to current and future employment.
• Increased confidence and readiness: With comprehensive, community-based support delivered through National Digital Inclusion Network (NDIN) hubs, at least 70% of participants are expected to report improved confidence in engaging with AI tools, helping to overcome misconceptions and fear
• Improved employability: Learners will be better positioned to safeguard their current roles and pursue new opportunities, with at least 70% able to demonstrate the practical application of AI in a work or job-seeking context.
• Equipping approximately 30 community organisations within the NDIN to deliver the AI skills training, enhancing long-term capacity to respond to future technology shifts.

It comes as Google launches its new ‘AI Works for Britain’ initiative to help Brits unlock upward mobility using AI, with nationwide 'Squeeze the Juice' AI bars, university tours, and nearly £2m in Google.org grant funding to support deeper AI upskilling for students and communities.

Vicki Sellick MBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation, said:

"We’re delighted to be working with 30 community organisations around the UK to bridge the AI skills gap for workers who need it most, thanks to Google.org. Together we’ll give more than 11,000 people foundational AI skills, ensuring they have the confidence and capacity not just to survive, but to thrive as the world of work changes.”

Kate Alessi, MD & VP, Google UK & Ireland, said:

"The fact that so many Brits feel stuck professionally and unable to achieve their goals is a clear call to action. AI is emerging as the new catalyst for personal progression: Brits see its potential to dismantle the barriers holding them back and, today, the barrier to using AI is effectively zero. But unlocking real value means moving beyond basic adoption to ‘squeeze the juice’ from these tools. With AI Works for Britain, we’ll bring practical AI skills to people in every corner of the UK – from juice bars to Jobcentres – to help them use AI to achieve their goals.” 

Good Things Foundation will deliver the programme through its Network, embedding learning directly into communities and workplaces through partnerships with employers, trade unions, and professional bodies.