Through the Google.org AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific, 49 social-impact organisations selected by AVPN—and backed by the Asian Development Bank—will roll out locally tailored courses to groups often left out of big-tech initiatives, from Indian “solopreneurs” and Singaporean migrant domestic workers to Japanese people with disabilities and their carers. Practical, on-the-ground instruction aims to turn curiosity into capability for a workforce that now tops two billion people.
Google.org has also sweetened the pot with a further US$12 million. The lion’s share—US$10 million—goes to AVPN to train 720,000 workers and 100,000 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). That’s critical for a region where MSMEs make up 96 per cent of all firms and employ up to 80 per cent of the workforce, yet often lack the cash, connectivity and know-how to embrace AI. A separate US$2 million grant to tech charity Infoxchange will equip 10,000 nonprofits with Gemini-powered tools, ensuring the social sector isn’t left scrambling on the sidelines.
The package signals Google’s broader push for an “inclusive” AI transition, pitching new technology as a leveller rather than a job-killer. By funnelling money and expertise into community-based trainers, the company hopes to create a ripple effect that reaches classrooms, shopfronts and charity offices across the region. It’s an approach that recognises that AI’s promise won’t be realised through silicon alone; the human element—skills, confidence and access—will decide whether the Asia-Pacific labour force thrives in the next tech wave.
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Context & Background
The Asia-Pacific region is poised to experience significant economic benefits from AI adoption, with projections estimating up to USD 3 trillion by 2030. However, this technological shift also presents challenges, particularly for workers lacking access to AI education and training. Initiatives like the AI Opportunity Fund aim to bridge this gap by providing resources and support to ensure a more inclusive transition into an AI-driven economy.
Similar efforts have been observed in the region, with major tech companies investing heavily in AI and cloud infrastructure. For instance, in 2024, Microsoft announced a $2.2 billion investment in Malaysia and a $1.7 billion investment in Indonesia to develop cloud and AI services. These investments underscore a broader trend of enhancing digital capabilities and preparing workforces for the evolving technological landscape.
In This Story
Google.org
Google’s philanthropic arm, dedicated to supporting initiatives that leverage technology to address global challenges.
Asian Venture Philanthropy Network (AVPN)
A network of social investors committed to increasing the flow and effectiveness of capital in Asia for social impact.
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
A regional development bank dedicated to reducing poverty and fostering economic growth in Asia and the Pacific.
Microsoft
A multinational technology company investing in AI and cloud infrastructure across the Asia-Pacific region.
