BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Small businesses across Berkeley County now have access to free artificial intelligence training through a new partnership between the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce and Google, chamber officials announced Wednesday.
The initiative will provide eligible businesses and their employees no‑cost enrollment in the Google AI Professional Certificate program, along with three months of complimentary access to Google AI Pro tools. Chamber leaders say the effort is designed to help local employers build practical AI skills at a time when technology is rapidly reshaping the workforce.
“This is an incredible opportunity for our business community,” said Elaine Morgan, CEO of the Berkeley Chamber. “AI is quickly becoming an essential tool across industries, and access to this level of training at no cost is a meaningful advantage for businesses of all sizes.”
A fast‑track to AI fluency
The Google AI Professional Certificate is structured to take learners from basic understanding to hands‑on application. The program includes expert‑led instruction, employer‑validated curriculum, and more than 20 real‑world exercises, such as developing marketing assets, creating data‑driven research plans, building project workflows, and transforming raw data into visual insights.
Google says the certificate can be completed in under 10 hours and requires no prior AI experience. Research from Ipsos cited by the company shows that 60% of AI‑fluent professionals report positive career outcomes, including promotions, higher wages, or new job opportunities.
Eligible U.S. small businesses may also apply for access to Google Workspace with Gemini as part of the program.
Supporting Small Business Month
The partnership launches during Small Business Month, and chamber officials say it’s part of a broader push to expand resources for local employers. Additional programs, events, and technology‑focused initiatives are expected to roll out in the coming weeks.
Businesses interested in applying for the AI certificate program can visit grow.google/smallbusiness.
For more information, the Berkeley Chamber can be reached at 843‑577‑9549 or [email protected].
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