Grant News
Organisations across the UK can apply for a share of £800,000 to deliver innovative AI training for residents, workers and businesses in Barnsley.
The government’s AI Upskilling Challenge Fund, part of the Barnsley Tech Town initiative, will support ambitious programmes that help people gain the skills needed to make greater use of artificial intelligence.
Projects could help manufacturers boost productivity, support small businesses to grow, build older residents’ digital confidence, and equip young people with skills for future employment.
Priority will be given to groups for whom existing free training may be insufficient, including manufacturing workers, older residents and entry-level workers.
Training providers, businesses, colleges, charities and technology companies can apply, provided activities are delivered in Barnsley. The strongest ideas could then help inform the delivery of similar programmes across the UK, supporting the government’s ambition to equip 10 million workers with AI skills by 2030.
Barnsley was named the UK’s first Tech Town, with local schools, colleges, businesses, NHS organisations and others receiving tailored government support to explore and expand the use of AI.
Applications open on 15 July 2026 and close on 12 August 2026. Successful applicants are expected to be selected in September 2026.
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