With the presence of AI already transforming the way multiple industries do business, tech giant (and AI leader) Google has decided to help bring the public sector up to speed.
On October 16th, at a Google Public Sector Summit held in Washington D.C., the company revealed its plans to provide $15 million in new Google.org funding to two prominent public sector organizations—the Partnership for Public Service and InnovateUS—with the intention of giving U.S. government workers an education in responsible AI.
The funding comes as part of Google.org’s $75 million AI Opportunity Fund, aimed at helping Americans learn essential AI skills.
The Center for Federal AI
Of the total grant money, $10 million will go to the nonpartisan nonprofit Partnership for Public Service to build the Center for Federal AI, a hub designed to develop AI leadership and talent among federal government employees. Set to open in spring 2025, the Center will provide an opportunity for federal workers at all levels to learn the ins and outs of responsible AI usage within their government agencies. Added to this are plans for a federal AI leadership program and federal AI internship program, among other initiatives.
InnovateUS’s Expanded AI Training Network
The remaining $5 million is slated for InnovateUS, a no-cost provider of AI training to public sector workers through courses, workshops, and programs. Using the money provided by Google.org, InnovateUS plans to further expand its operation, making government-specific AI training and education materials available to more than 100,000 public sector workers across more than 30 states. In addition to InnovateUS’s courses and workshops, this will also include access to the Google Career Certificates program (which includes AI training).
GovTech Experts Say Training is Key
As this new and exciting technology begins to take hold in government agencies, public sector technology experts remain cautiously optimistic. In a recent article for Government Technology Insider, Euna Solutions’ Chief Product Officer John Alexander acknowledged the benefits of AI but stressed the need for proper training and education.
“Given the dynamic nature of AI technology, enhancing staff capacity within government agencies is crucial,” he explained. “Ongoing education and training are essential to inform staff about emerging opportunities, such as AI-powered data analysis, and potential risks, like algorithmic biases. Developing internal expertise and establishing dedicated AI teams ensures knowledgeable and effective integration of AI systems.”
While the rapid evolution of AI may cause some to be wary, it also has the potential to streamline and revolutionize essential government functions such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. With the important work of organizations such as Partnership for Public Service and InnovateUS—as well as Google.org’s new funding announcement—the public sector can help ensure its ability to utilize this new technology to its full potential.