Citi Foundation launches fourth Global Innovation Challenge

On September 14, the Citi Foundation unveiled its fourth Global Innovation Challenge, issuing a $25 million Request for Proposals (RFP) aimed at equipping young people with the essential skills and experiences needed to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. Brandee McHale, Citi's head of Community Investing and Development, explained that amidst technological advancements, young people, especially those from low-income backgrounds, face both obstacles and possibilities.

Fluency in AI is crucial for unlocking these chances, and the challenge seeks to cultivate this capability, as well as the requisite skills to succeed in future jobs and emerge as the innovators and leaders of tomorrow. According to the World Economic Forum, around 66% of employers anticipate hiring talent with specialized AI skills, hence the relevance of AI and digital literacy.

However, AI also exacerbates a digital divide among young individuals who lack access to or competence in technology. To address this, the challenge will allocate $500,000 to 50 community organizations that foster both AI and human-centric skills, including prompt engineering, digital content creation, problem-solving, and critical thinking, while also connecting youth to job prospects via community centers, limited internet access-friendly software platforms, and enhanced youth employment programs integrating AI tools.

Building upon Citi's established commitment to youth, such as its decade-long Pathways to Progress initiative, the challenge will select recipients until October 6, with final announcements set for 2027. Additional details, including eligibility criteria and focus areas, can be found on the Citi Foundation's website.