Verizon has launched a new $70 million programme aimed at helping US citizens learn how to use AI and prepare for changes in the workplace.
The initiative, called Verizon AI Skills for America, will offer free AI training to job seekers, students, early-career workers, educators, small businesses and people moving into new careers.
The investment combines $20 million from Verizon’s existing Reskilling and Career Transition Fund with $50 million in new funding.
According to the telecoms giant, the scheme is part of its wider efforts to help people gain digital skills and keep up with changes in technology.
Verizon CEO, Dan Schulman, said: “Strengthening the American economy starts with making sure every individual has the opportunity to adapt and succeed in a rapidly changing world. AI isn’t just a technological shift- it will change the face of every workforce around the world.
“Companies, working closely together and with the public sector, have a responsibility to invest in people with the same urgency they invest in technology. By giving people and small businesses free access to the best AI training, we are helping workers retain their jobs, navigate transitions, support their families, and help small businesses grow – while building confidence in our American economy.
“When you empower people to embrace change rather than fear it, you create a ripple effect that builds healthier communities and a stronger and more resilient national economy,” he added.
As part of the deal, the telecoms giant plans to create a single online portal where people can access AI training from major technology and education companies, bringing together learning resources from IBM, Google, Microsoft, Anthropic, Coursera and OpenAI, free of charge to participants.
Verizon Chief Responsible Business Officer, Donna Epps, said: “Creating meaningful economic opportunity in the AI era is not something any one company can achieve alone.
“We are deeply grateful to our tech partners for collaborating with us to bring world-class AI training to local communities entirely free of charge.”
Alongside this, the company is also working with community organisations that can provide practical support and guidance.
Partners include the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) and Goodwill Industries International.
These organisations will help participants understand the training, build useful skills and apply what they learn to real jobs and businesses.
Meanwhile, Verizon said Verizon AI Skills for America will launch across the US, with additional support services available in selected regional markets.
The company also plans to work with participants and local partners to gather feedback and improve the programme as technology and workplace needs change.
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