Hong Kong Launches Free AI Courses with Google, Microsoft for SMEs
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago1 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong on Thursday announced the launch of a free AI training programme in partnership with technology giants Google and Microsoft, aimed at helping small and medium-sized enterprises adopt artificial intelligence. The initiative, part of the government's HK$50 million "AI for All" programme, will be coordinated by the Hong Kong Productivity Council and implemented across the city's two major technology hubs.
Key Points
- The HK$50 million (US$6.38 million) "AI for All" initiative will offer free AI courses in partnership with Google and Microsoft
- The programme targets SMEs in education, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and logistics, which comprise over 90 per cent of Hong Kong businesses
- The Hong Kong Productivity Council leads the initiative, with Cyberport and Hong Kong Science Park supporting implementation
- More than 200 activities will take place over two years, expected to benefit 50,000 people
- Courses focus on practical generative AI applications for content creation, data analysis, and workflow efficiency
Why It Matters
With SMEs accounting for over 90 per cent of businesses in Hong Kong, this initiative addresses a critical gap in AI adoption that could affect the city's competitiveness. The programme represents a strategic investment in building future-ready talent while ensuring the safe and productive integration of AI technologies into real business operations.
With SMEs accounting for over 90 per cent of businesses in Hong Kong, this initiative addresses a critical gap in AI adoption that could affect the city's competitiveness. The programme represents a strategic investment in building future-ready talent while ensuring the safe and productive integration of AI technologies into real business operations.