The AI Upskilling Challenge Fund, part of the government's Barnsley Tech Town initiative is now open for applications.
A share of £800,000 is available for organisations that can deliver innovative AI training to local workers, businesses and residents. This could be for things like greater use of AI on the factory floor, supporting small businesses to grow, help older residents build digital confidence, and equip young people looking to enter the job market with the skills they need for jobs of the future.
Any organisation based in the country is eligible to apply, provided their programme can be delivered to residents and workers in the Barnsley area.
Minister for AI and Online Safety, Kanishka Narayan, said: "When we launched Barnsley Tech Town we made a promise that the opportunities created by AI would be felt by workers and communities across the town, not just those already ahead.
"Now we’re throwing down a challenge to the country’s most ambitious and creative training providers, businesses, colleges and charities – bring us your boldest ideas for helping the people of Barnsley build the skills they need to take advantage of AI.
"Whether it’s helping manufacturers boost productivity, supporting small businesses to grow, or giving workers the confidence to embrace new technology, we want ideas that can make a real difference. The best solutions won’t just help people in Barnsley - they could become a blueprint for how Britain equips a generation with the skills of the future."
Cllr Andy Cudworth, Barnsley Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Assets, said: "This investment as part of Barnsley’s Tech Town status is another important step in delivering our vision for Barnsley’s future.
"It supports Barnsley Council’s ambition to become the UK’s leading digital town, helps future-proof our world-class logistics and manufacturing sectors, and ensures that communities across the borough can benefit from the opportunities that growth brings.
"By investing in innovation, skills and infrastructure, we are creating the conditions for businesses and residents to thrive."
