International Business Machines issues global RFP to co-develop AI learning and workforce tools

IBM issues global RFP to co-develop AI tools for learning and work

On Feb. 4, 2026 International Business Machines launches a global request for proposals for the next cohort of its IBM Impact Accelerator, seeking nonprofits, government bodies and academic institutions to co-develop AI-driven solutions that strengthen learning, career transitions and access to jobs.

RFP targets scalable AI solutions for education and workforce systems

IBM frames the initiative as a direct response to a widening skills gap as artificial intelligence reshapes work. The RFP solicits projects that apply AI to systemic challenges in teaching, assessment and workforce preparation, including AI-enabled teaching and assessment tools, personalized learning and career-guidance assistants, and data platforms that connect learners to real opportunities. IBM also calls for simulation and governance environments that allow educators and policymakers to test and refine responsible AI practices and to forecast future education needs.

The programme emphasizes practical, scalable partnerships rather than isolated pilots, aiming to bolster institutional capacity across public and nonprofit sectors. Selected organisations receive two-year, pro bono technology and implementation grants and access to IBM technologies such as IBM watsonx, Granite AI models, IBM Cloud and IBM Quantum, as well as Red Hat open-source tools and support from IBM’s broader ecosystem. IBM says the goal is to strengthen data infrastructure and tools so education and workforce systems can adapt faster and reduce skills mismatches.

Industry research underpins the push

IBM’s announcement follows recent IBM Institute for Business Value research showing 67% of executives say job roles are becoming shorter‑lived and 57% expect most current employee skills to be obsolete by 2030, framing the need for faster learning-to-work transitions. IBM cites a Pearson estimate that slow or unclear transitions between education and employment cost the U.S. economy about $1.1 trillion annually, using the figures to justify investment in systems-level solutions.

Institutions face capacity gaps even as learners turn online

IBM warns millions are turning to online courses and certifications but many education and workforce institutions lack the data infrastructure, tools and capacity to adapt at the same pace. “Education and workforce systems are under pressure to adapt faster than ever, but many lack the tools to do so,” says Justina Nixon‑Saintil, IBM Vice President and Chief Impact Officer, adding the company seeks practical, scalable solutions that can be implemented across diverse public and nonprofit settings.