#United States #New York #Cybersecurity #AI Skills #Kyndryl Foundation

Kyndryl Foundation Expands Cybersecurity Initiative

The Kyndryl Foundation, philanthropic branch of Kyndryl, has recently announced the extension of its funding program, reaching out to 12 nonprofit organizations across 11 different countries. This initiative aims to enhance cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) skills development, positively impacting the lives of over 55,000 individuals over the next few years.

Program’s Expansion Across Borders

In this second year of funding, Kyndryl Foundation is not only continuing its support but also amplifying its efforts by including five additional countries: Brazil, Canada, Costa Rica, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Previously, the initiative had supported organizations in the Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Japan, Poland, and the United States. The organization has introduced long-term funding options, including multi-year grants that allow for a deeper engagement with the recipient nonprofits, facilitating a more permanent social impact.

Addressing the Skills Gap

The need for qualified professionals in cybersecurity and AI is critical, especially as cyberattacks continue to threaten organizations globally. Focusing on grassroots efforts, Kyndryl Foundation aims to bridge this skills gap through targeted training programs, job placement initiatives, and awareness campaigns. Una Pulizzi, President of the Kyndryl Foundation, stated, “We are committing ourselves to tackle the pressing shortage of cybersecurity and AI talent, thereby enabling a new generation of skilled professionals.”

Grantee Highlights

Among the foundational grantees from various countries, notable initiatives include:

• - Czechitas (Czech Republic): This organization focuses on training women for careers as Security Operations Center Analysts and Information Security Specialists. They plan to educate 100 women in cybersecurity while also launching cyber awareness initiatives affecting approximately 50,000 individuals.

• - Data Security Council of India (DSCI): With a focus on women’s education, DSCI has introduced the Cyber Vaahini program, which aims to train 100 women. Their future plans include developing a high-tech cybersecurity training center in Mumbai.

• - Girl Security (U.S.): This group's Workforce Training Program is set to prepare over 1,000 participants from low-income backgrounds for a career in technology, specifically targeting paths in cybersecurity.

• - NPO Sodateage Net (Japan): This nonprofit will help nearly 1,500 young individuals through various employment support programs, including a specialized cybersecurity skilling program.

Commitment to Local Communities

Other grantees include organizations like CLACK in Japan, which offers courses for economically disadvantaged students, and Fundación Cibervoluntarios in Spain, which provides cybersecurity skills training to 5,000 young individuals. In the UK, the Generation You Employed organization will run training camps for 230 individuals, while Junior Achievement Americas will support 400 women in Brazil and Costa Rica.

The Wider Impact

As the digital landscape evolves, the Kyndryl Foundation aims not just to fill current roles but to sustainably enhance the workforce’s capabilities in cybersecurity and AI through robust educational programs. The organization’s commitment extends beyond mere funding; the establishment of a training and employment pipeline aims to uplift communities by providing opportunities to those often left behind.

The Path Forward

The Kyndryl Foundation is determined to particularly focus on elevating underrepresented communities, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds have access to training and employment opportunities in the fields of cybersecurity and AI. The strides made in this second year are expected to yield long-lasting effects, driving innovation and growth within the tech industry, while addressing critical societal issues.

With a robust framework in place, the Kyndryl Foundation's global commitment to enhancing cybersecurity and AI skills stands as a model for how organizations can work towards addressing significant challenges and fostering economic empowerment.

For detailed insights on Kyndryl's efforts and initiatives, visit Kyndryl Foundation.