Verizon Commits $70 Million to Free AI Training Program for US Workers

Verizon (NYSE: VZ) announced a $70 million initiative on Sept. 23, 2026, to provide free AI training to job seekers, small businesses, educators and displaced workers across the United States. The program, Verizon AI Skills for America, combines a $20 million fund originally created for departing employees with an additional $50 million commitment. Verizon said comparable independent AI training can cost more than $700 per person annually. A single online portal consolidates materials from IBM, Google, Microsoft, Anthropic, Coursera and OpenAI at no charge, with in-person coaching from nonprofits including Goodwill Industries International. CEO Dan Schulman told Reuters the initiative is meant to serve as a model, urging other Fortune 100 companies to contribute similarly. The $20 million portion traces back to a fund Verizon established after announcing 13,000 job cuts. Registration is available at verizon.com/aiskillsforamerica.