Microsoft Launches Stimulus Plan
Microsoft Corp. today announced a new initiative, Elevate America, which will provide up to 2 million people over the next three years with the technology training needed to succeed in the 21st-century economy.
Microsoft has worked for years with other businesses and community-based partners to broaden access to job opportunities through information technology education and training. Elevate America expands these efforts and provides immediate support in response to the current economic crisis in partnership with others in the public and private sector.
Elevate America has two main offerings, one available immediately and one that will be provided in partnership with state governments including those of Florida, New York and Washington.
A new online resource, located at http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica
Some of the basics offered
- Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training
- Basic-level information technology training resources through Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula
- Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and instructor-led, plus selected certification exams
- Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft
- Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business certification
- Grants of cash and software to community partners to build in-classroom training capacity
- Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the Microsoft IT Academy program
- Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training and resources that position them for success in the economy today, and tomorrow
