Hong Kong to Offer Free AI Courses From Google and Microsoft

Hong Kong launches free AI training courses with support from Google and Microsoft to help SMEs adopt artificial intelligence for content creation, data analysis and workflow efficiency across key industries.

Hong Kong is set to introduce a series of free artificial intelligence (AI) training courses for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with technology companies including Google and Microsoft contributing their expertise. The initiative forms part of the government’s HK$50 million “AI for All” programme, which aims to accelerate business adoption of AI and strengthen workforce capabilities.

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is coordinating the training initiative, which targets businesses across several sectors, including education, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and logistics. The programme focuses on helping companies identify practical applications of AI that can improve operational efficiency, support content creation and strengthen data analysis capabilities.

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The initiative places particular emphasis on SMEs, which account for more than 90 per cent of businesses in Hong Kong and form an important part of the city’s economic activity. Hong Kong Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong says supporting SMEs in transforming and upgrading through AI remains a key objective of the broader AI for All initiative.

Rather than limiting training to basic AI usage, the programme aims to help employees understand how the technology can be integrated into business processes. HKPC deputy chairman Emil Yu Chen-on describes the initiative as a future-focused investment in talent, with an emphasis on ensuring that AI is applied safely and effectively. The courses are designed to identify actionable and scalable applications that can address the specific requirements of different industries.

The training is expected to cover practical areas where AI can deliver measurable business benefits. These include automated content creation, data analysis and workflow optimisation. By developing employee capabilities in these areas, the programme seeks to help companies move from experimenting with AI tools to incorporating them into everyday operations.

The involvement of major technology companies such as Google and Microsoft provides participating businesses with access to industry expertise and current AI knowledge. Their participation also reflects the increasing role of technology providers in supporting workforce development and responsible AI adoption.

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The initiative comes as Hong Kong strengthens its wider strategy to expand the use of artificial intelligence across its economy. Earlier plans also indicate that the city is working with major technology firms to provide AI training for workers, with a broader workforce programme expected to begin in November.

Through the free courses, Hong Kong aims to equip employees with practical AI capabilities while helping SMEs improve productivity and competitiveness. The programme also supports the government’s broader objective of ensuring that businesses can adopt emerging technologies responsibly and translate AI capabilities into sustainable economic value.