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American Express launches free AI training for small businesses

Top Companies AI — US (2/2)11h ago3 min read
American Express launches free AI training for small businesses

Key takeaway

American Express has launched two AI education initiatives to help small businesses move from experimenting with generative AI to using it in daily operations. The first offers free, self-guided training courses in English and Spanish across three role-based tracks focused on practical applications such as marketing and customer engagement. The second, administered by Scholarship America, provides up to $1,000 in scholarships for US-based small business employees pursuing AI certification courses at accredited institutions, with applications open until 10 June 2026.

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3 Key Points

  • What happened

    American Express has launched two AI education initiatives for small businesses worldwide, developed with non-profit partners Generation and Scholarship America. The first offers free, self-guided AI training in English and Spanish covering practical applications like marketing and customer engagement across three role-based tracks. The second provides US-based small business employees with scholarships of up to $1,000 toward AI certification courses, with applications open until 10 June 2026.

  • Why it matters

    The programmes are designed to help small businesses move beyond experimental use of generative AI toward real-world business applications. American Express says the training was informed by pilot projects on common operational challenges small businesses face, suggesting the company sees practical AI adoption—not just exploration—as a business priority for its customers.

  • What to watch

    The free training is available globally in English and Spanish, while the $1,000 scholarship programme is limited to eligible US-based employees. The self-guided curriculum includes three tracks: AI Generalist, Digital Marketing, and Digital Customer Success.

FAQ

Who is eligible for the scholarship programme?
The Smart Futures for Small Business Scholarships are available to eligible US-based small business employees, who can be nominated by their employers. Applications are open until 10 June 2026.
What does the free AI training programme cover?
The training covers practical AI applications including drafting customer communications, supporting marketing campaigns, organising information, summarising content, and analysing business insights. It is organised into three self-guided tracks: AI Generalist, Digital Marketing, and Digital Customer Success, available in English and Spanish.
How much can employees receive from the scholarship?
Eligible US-based small business employees can receive up to $1,000 towards AI certification courses or training programmes provided by accredited institutions or technology vendors.

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