IBM has opened a request for proposals for nonprofits and government organizations to develop artificial intelligence solutions addressing the growing disconnect between workplace skills and education systems.
The IBM Impact Accelerator program will select organizations to receive two-year technology grants focused on AI-driven education and workforce development. Selected participants will gain access to IBM’s watsonx AI platform, Granite AI models, cloud services and consulting support.
Skills obsolescence accelerating
The initiative responds to rapid changes in job requirements driven by AI adoption. Research from the IBM Institute for Business Value found that 67 per cent of executives surveyed say job roles are becoming shorter-lived, and 57 per cent expect most current employee skills will be obsolete by 2030.
Slow transitions between education and employment cost the U.S. economy an estimated $1.1 trillion annually, according to Pearson.
“Education and workforce systems are under pressure to adapt faster than ever, but many lack the tools to do so,” said Justina Nixon-Saintil, IBM vice-president and chief impact officer. “Through this global RFP, IBM is supporting organizations that use AI to close the gap between learning and work in real time while strengthening the pathways that connect education to quality jobs.”
Target project areas
Selected projects may include AI-enabled teaching and assessment tools, personalized learning platforms, career guidance systems and data infrastructure connecting learners to employment opportunities. The program will also support simulation environments for testing responsible AI practices in educational settings.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, government entities, government-owned enterprises and nonprofit colleges and universities. Organizations must commit to a two-year engagement and conduct work in English.
Program details
Proposals are open until March 25, 2026 through IBM’s proposal submission portal. Strategic partner EY will participate in the cohort alongside IBM researchers, designers and consultants.
Since launching in 2022, the IBM Impact Accelerator has supported 25 organizations, with projects benefiting approximately 2.5 million people across sustainable agriculture, clean energy, water management and resilient cities. IBM committed up to $45 million in cash and in-kind donations over five years in 2024 to support populations facing environmental and economic challenges.
