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AI Upskilling and Web Design

Hopeworks

Programme

Status

Current

Partnership

Programme

Region

USA

Launch year

2025

Age group

Adults

Target group

Social Mobility

Helping disadvantaged young adults in the U.S. to overcome barriers to economic opportunity and secured sustained long-term employment

Trainees at US social enterprise Hopeworks work on a project

Hopeworks was founded in New Jersey in 1999 to help young adults ​overcome barriers to economic opportunity and build sustainable futures. Most p​articipants do not have college degrees, and ​99%​​​​​ ​of them are unemployed when they join​ the program​me​. 

Participants train in one of Hopeworks’ business areas, as well AI skills for the workplace. Depending on their training track, participants either become ‘AI Augmented Professionals’ proficient in using AI tools to enhance productivity and decision-making, or ‘AI Builders’ skilled in using AI tools to create AI-powered applications and workflows focused on driving business value. This is followed by six months of work experience within Hopeworks’ business arm, before transitioning to long-term employment. Of the young people who train at Hopeworks, 95% secure employment within a year, with an average income gain of 160x. 

The Hg Foundation’s $1.2 million grant over three years is enabling the expansion of Hopeworks’ programme in two new cities, Newark (launched 2026) and a fourth location (launching 2027). Portions of the grant are also supporting a project to develop Hopeworks’ impact measurement capabilities, and strengthening their senior leadership capacity to help support programme scaling.  

2

new cities to which Hopeworks is expanding with Foundation support

85%+

of participants expected to gain full-time tech employment within 1 year of the programme 

$40,000+

expected salary on finishing the programme

This partnership with The Hg Foundation is a game-changer for the young adults we serve, and expanding into new cities means we can reach even more individuals who are ready to transform their lives. We are incredibly grateful for The Hg Foundation’s belief in our mission and their generous support. Their investment doesn’t just help us grow — it sends a powerful message to our young adults that they are seen, valued, and capable of building bright, sustainable futures.

Dan Rhoton, CEO, Hopeworks

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