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YMCA Canada Partners with Google Canada to Expand AI Learning Access

YMCA Canada

YMCA Canada is teaming up with Google Canada to distribute up to 100,000 scholarship licences for their latest Grow with Google AI training. The scholarships will be made available through YMCAs across the country.

This partnership reflects the YMCA’s broader commitment to creating opportunities that remove barriers, empower individuals, and help people learn, connect, and reach their potential as AI literacy becomes an increasingly important life and workforce skill.

Through participating YMCA Associations, learners will gain free access to practical AI courses starting in January 2027.

The scholarships open the door to a range of Grow with Google courses, including Google AI Essentials and the Google AI Professional Certificate. Both courses are self-paced and designed to help learners gain practical AI skills, with no prior experience required. Learners will gain hands-on experience using AI tools to support building their skills across a variety of fields including communication, planning, data analysis, research, and more. Learners will also be able to access Accelerate Your Job Search with AI, focused on practical tools like resumé building and interview prep.

Courses are hosted through Coursera and include narrated lessons, videos, and hands-on exercises. Content will be offered in English and French, with support for other languages available.

“As AI transforms our world, access to the knowledge needed to understand and use it is increasingly important to ensure no one is left behind,” said Peter Dinsdale, President and CEO of YMCA Canada. “Through our partnership with Google Canada and Grow with Google, we can help people navigate this change, building in-demand AI skills and unlocking opportunities as the future unfolds faster than ever before.”

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