Mark Cuban Foundation Offers Free AI Training to Teens

The Mark Cuban Foundation is expanding its free Artificial Intelligence (AI) bootcamp program to high school students across the United States. This fall, over 35 bootcamps will be held nationwide, with applications closing on September 30.

The program is designed for students with no prior coding background. Participants will spend three consecutive Saturdays learning about AI, developing a capstone project, and receiving mentorship from local professionals. The initiative aims to make AI education accessible.

The foundation's efforts occur amidst growing discussions about AI's role in education for minors. Recent policy changes in New York and California have introduced regulations and moratoriums concerning AI use by students, particularly younger ones.

While some regions are placing guardrails around AI exposure for younger children, Cuban's foundation is focused on equipping older students with AI literacy. This initiative could provide a valuable talent pool for small businesses seeking employees with AI skills as the technology becomes increasingly integrated into the workforce.