Juniper Networks Foundation backs nationwide initiative, building on prior support from Centre for Public Impact with support from the Google.org AI Opportunity Fund to ensure no community is left behind in the AI revolution.
Colorintech, a leading non-profit dedicated to making Europe the most inclusive tech hub, today announced the launch of its ambitious "AI for Everyone" initiative, backed by a $1 million grant from the Juniper Networks Foundation. This initiative will combine programming and policy work to ensure AI creates economic opportunities for underrepresented individuals across the UK, aiming to train 5,000 people by 2027 while reaching 30,000 through awareness campaigns.
Building on eight years of advancing digital inclusion, Colorintech will leverage its partnerships with industry leaders who include ServiceNow, Google, Meta, and ARM to create an accessible, industry-backed AI course and certification. The curriculum is designed to increase employability in AI careers.
Expanding on Prior Support
Earlier investments from the Centre for Public Impact supported by the Google.org AI Opportunity Fund, laid a strong foundation for Colorintech’s efforts to address the digital divide. This initial support will enable training for over 300 students and working adults through the Google AI Essentials course, delivered across London, Birmingham, Leicester, and Manchester. Building on this groundwork, the "AI for Everyone" initiative significantly broadens the scope, reaching new communities and expanding opportunities to ensure underrepresented individuals can thrive in the AI-driven economy.
“The launch of Colorintech’s initiative comes at a crucial time for the UK's tech landscape. As recent commentary from industry leaders highlights, the UK faces a once-in-a-generation opportunity to lead in AI adoption, but risks falling behind without adequate investment in digital skills. We’re incredibly excited to play a role in ensuring AI benefits everyone, and equip underrepresented talent with the skills needed to leverage AI in their careers and lives.”
- Dion McKenzie, Co-Founder of Colorintech
"Juniper Networks is thrilled to support this timely and impactful initiative as we observe the mounting importance and rapid adoption of AI. The utilization of native AI is foundational to Juniper’s core innovations and a key driving force behind our mission to make every connection count. As AI
becomes more ubiquitous, it is vital that equitable access to and benefit from it grow too. We are honoured to be a part of ensuring that this exciting industry revolution is accessible to many and varied communities.”
Hillary Weingast, Vice President, Corporate Social Responsibility and Inclusion & Diversity, Juniper Networks
The initiative features three key pillars: education, awareness, and policy. Beyond the foundational AI course, Colorintech will establish a grant fund for AI entrepreneurs and launch a nationwide awareness campaign including "Lunch & Learn" sessions and online events with AI leaders to demystify AI adoption. These events will explore AI's impact on the future of work and create pathways for meaningful engagement in the AI economy. Additionally, Colorintech will create an Inclusive AI Workforce advisory board of industry leaders and academics to shape best practices for inclusive AI development in the UK and Europe.
Building on their established track record, which includes helping underrepresented founders raise over $50M and building a community of 60,000+ members, Colorintech continues to bridge gaps between industry and civic society in emerging technologies. The organisation has graduated over 6,000 participants from its programs and hosts BTF, one of London's largest tech events, attracting 7,000 attendees this year.
About Colorintech:
Founded in 2016, Colorintech is an industry-backed nonprofit dedicated to creating access and scale opportunities for underrepresented talent. Through transformative programming, events and policy initiatives, we are creating a tech industry where everyone can participate and thrive.
