Salesforce announces $1m grant for UK’s next generation workforce

Salesforce.org, the philanthropic arm of Salesforce, today announced $1m in grants to School 21 and Ada to train the UK’s educators and equip young people with the skills that will help them thrive in the 21st century.

The grants to School 21 and Ada will be used to support new programmes at both institutions as they nurture the talent and leadership skills needed for the jobs of the future.

Valued at $500,000 each, the grants will support the School 21 Innovative Leadership Development Programme and the Ada Apprenticeship Scheme. The grants underscore Salesforce.org’s ongoing commitment to help ensure the workforce of tomorrow is equipped with the skills and experience to enter the professional workforce, especially in tech careers.

The grants will also complement Salesforce UK’s commitment to volunteering with both organisations to support their education and apprenticeship programmes.

Minister for Digital, Margot James, said: “Developing the next generation of tech talent is vital if we are to maintain our position as a world-leading digital economy.

“Through Salesforce.org’s grants and our Digital Strategy we will continue working with industry to inspire the talent of tomorrow and give some of the country’s brightest young minds the chance to learn digital skills and thrive in the future workplace.”

Ebony Frelix, EVP & Chief Philanthropy Officer at Salesforce.org said: “At Salesforce.org, we’re focused on equality for all youth and work to support organisations that prepare leaders and arm the next generation with the skills they need for tomorrow’s jobs. School 21 and Ada could not be better positioned to provide teacher training and nurture new talent for the UK’s workforce to ensure that young people have access to these opportunities regardless of their gender or background.”

Andrew Lawson, Executive Vice President and General Manager, UK at Salesforce added: “When we talk about IT skills, the conversation often overlooks the teachers who are tasked with delivering the skills to the next generation. These grants will help ensure that the UK cements its place as a digital leader, by supporting teachers and students of all backgrounds, highlighting the range of exciting opportunities that technology presents. We are excited to be working with School 21 and Ada to support a better, more equal world for everyone.”