More than one in three young workers globally now hold positions with medium to high exposure to changes driven by artificial intelligence, highlighting the accelerating impact of AI on entry-level jobs. IBM is responding to this shift by providing pro bono grants of technology and expertise through its Impact Accelerator program, selecting four organizations for a new workforce development cohort.
These groups will address skills gaps at different stages of education and career pathways, using tools like IBM watsonx and IBM Qiskit. “As AI shapes the future of work, our ability to prepare people for new opportunities will be just as important as the technology itself,” said Justina Nixon-Saintil, Vice President and Chief Impact Officer, IBM.
AI and Quantum Skills for Colorado’s Economic Development
The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) is collaborating with IBM to bolster the state’s preparedness for advancements in artificial intelligence and quantum computing. This partnership will use IBM’s expertise to develop AI-enabled analytics and decision-support tools, intended to refine talent and economic development strategies within Colorado. The project extends beyond analysis, aiming to broaden access to quantum resources, specifically IBM’s and to support both AI and quantum education initiatives that enhance Colorado’s competitive position in these emerging fields.
This focused effort is occurring alongside a broader initiative by IBM to address a rapidly changing workforce. IBM can help turn innovative ideas into scalable solutions with lasting impact, and the organizations in this cohort are helping build systems that can adapt quickly to changing skills and opportunities. InnovateEDU is also participating in the Impact Accelerator, focusing on preparing future educators for the integration of AI and digital technologies.
The organization will co-develop a national AI & Digital Literacy Workforce Dashboard, using IBM watsonx and associated learning resources. This open-source tool is designed to help educator programs and state leaders assess current preparation levels for AI and digital literacy, identifying areas where additional support is needed through examination of coursework, certification requirements and AI policy. The project will begin with research and design, followed by implementation with a network of educator preparation institutions before wider release.
Ramona Technologies, a nonprofit focused on workforce development in Latin America, will enhance its platform with IBM Granite models and AI Fairness 360. This will strengthen Spanish-language job-posting analysis and identify potential bias, delivering personalized learning resources through WhatsApp to help job seekers navigate the labor market. Udhyam Learning Foundation in India will expand its Youth Opportunities Platform, using IBM watsonx and Granite models to provide personalized career guidance and connect students with opportunities beyond traditional schooling, including scholarships, internships and employment.
The IBM Impact Accelerator operates in three phases: co-design using IBM Garage, development and implementation with technologies like IBM watsonx and Red Hat open-source tools, and finally, training and long-term solution management. This cohort also benefits from capacity-building workshops and coaching provided by EY. Launched in 2022, the program has committed up to $75 million in cash and in-kind donations through 2028, with projects from previous cohorts projected to reach over seven million people.
As AI shapes the future of work, our ability to prepare people for new opportunities will be just as important as the technology itself.
Justina Nixon-Saintil, Vice President and Chief Impact Officer, IBM
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