Citi Foundation Launches $25 Mn Global Challenge for Youth AI Upskilling 📈

• Global Funding Overview: Citi Foundation commits US$ 25 Mn in its fourth Global Innovation Challenge to equip low-income youth with artificial intelligence and digital workforce skills. • Grant Structure: The initiative will disburse US$ 500,000 grants to 50 community organizations globally, aiming to enhance youth employability and support local economic resilience. • Key Focus Areas: • Building AI literacy (e.g., prompt engineering, content creation) paired with critical soft skills like problem-solving. • Expanding digital access via community hubs, shared devices, and low-connectivity tools. • Integrating AI tools into existing youth employment initiatives and fostering cross-sector partnerships. • Industry Demand Drivers: Citing World Economic Forum research, 66% of employers seek specialized AI capabilities, while over 60% demand enhanced human-centric skills. • Timeline & Eligibility: Eligible organizations must submit expressions of interest by October 6, 2026, with grant recipients to be announced in 2027.