Google.org Launches AI Fund Expansion to Bridge Skills Gap
Google.org has announced a significant expansion of its AI Opportunity Fund in Asia Pacific, committing an additional $12 million. This amount will support workers, small businesses, and regional nonprofits.
The move follows the release of a new report by AVPN, a social investment network, which found that 58% of people in the region are enthusiastic about artificial intelligence but only 15% have received any form of AI training.
This disconnect highlights a growing skills gap that could hinder inclusive economic growth in one of the world’s most dynamic labour markets. Many remain unaware that such training programs exist, making localized outreach critical.
Supporting 49 Organizations Across the Region
As part of the fund’s first phase, 49 social impact organizations will receive financial support to deliver tailored AI training to underserved communities. These recipients were selected by AVPN through an open call, with additional support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
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The initiatives will provide region-specific training to diverse groups — including rural entrepreneurs in India, migrant domestic workers in Singapore, and caregivers for individuals with disabilities in Japan. The programs focus on practical applications of AI, designed to meet the economic and cultural needs of each local context.
Google.org emphasized that this localized strategy aims to close existing workforce development gaps and ensure equitable access to AI tools and opportunities.
Expanding Reach to Workers, MSMEs, and Nonprofits
The expanded fund includes $10 million for AVPN to help train 720,000 workers and 100,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Asia Pacific. MSMEs are vital to the region’s economy, representing 96% of all companies and employing as much as 80% of the workforce. But many face barriers to AI adoption due to limited training options and constrained resources.
Another $2 million will go to Infoxchange, an Australian nonprofit, to support AI training for 10,000 nonprofits in the region. These organizations will also gain access to AI tools, including new Gemini features within Google for Nonprofits. The goal is to empower nonprofits to harness AI for social good and enhance their impact.
Google.org reaffirmed the transition to an AI-driven economy should be equitable and inclusive. Through the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific and collaborations with entities such as AVPN and Infoxchange, the effort aims to empower communities with the tools and information necessary to succeed in the digital age.
