The Tech Council of Delaware recently announced it has received a $100,000 grant from Barclays to support the Delaware AI Upskilling & Training Landscape Assessment & Gap Analysis, a statewide project designed to better align AI training and upskilling opportunities with employer demand and Delaware’s evolving workforce needs.

The project will map existing AI training and upskilling offerings available to Delaware residents, identify gaps in the current landscape, validate employer demand across key industries, and produce practical recommendations to strengthen industry-aligned pathways into tech-enabled careers. Findings will be shared publicly through a final report, online resource hub and a workforce ecosystem convening planned for the fall.

“This investment from Barclays Bank US comes at an important moment for Delaware,” said Joshua Berkow, Tech Council of Delaware CEO. “AI is already reshaping roles across industries, but the systems that help people build relevant skills and navigate career pathways are still catching up. This project will give Delaware a clearer picture of what training options exist today, where the gaps are and which programs the ecosystem should expand or build next to ensure more residents can access the opportunities emerging in an AI-driven economy.” 

The analysis will include Delaware-based offerings across coding bootcamps, adult and continuing education providers, colleges and universities, as well as major national and virtual providers that Delaware residents are likely to access. In addition to examining AI-specific programs, the project will also assess programs that are meaningfully embedding AI into their curriculum or delivery.

“Understanding how AI is changing jobs and industries is essential to making sure workers and communities are prepared for the changing skills, roles and career pathways emerging across the economy,” said Jennifer Cho, head of citizenship and community relations at Barclays US Consumer Bank. “At Barclays, our citizenship work is centered on creating opportunity – helping people build the skills and confidence to get into work. We’re pleased to support the Tech Council of Delaware in helping the state identify opportunities, address gaps and strengthen pathways that can help future-proof Delaware’s workforce.”

The initiative is part of TCD’s broader efforts to help Delawareans better understand AI training options, strengthen connections between employers and workforce partners, and build a more coordinated tech workforce system. The project will also help inform future investments and implementation strategies that expand access to in-demand skills, careers and opportunities across the state.