20 May 2026

  • New programme launched by Currys to build AI confidence, skills and know‑how among local charities.
  • Part of Currys’ ambition to become the Home of AI.

Currys is launching a new programme to help charities build the confidence, skills and practical know‑how to use AI, ensuring local causes can ‘keep up’ as AI adoption across the sector continues to accelerate.

The programme will roll out across a number of select Currys stores, offering free, in‑depth and bespoke AI training sessions for charities. Sessions will be delivered by Currys’ in‑store AI Experts, specially trained colleagues focused on bringing AI to life for customers and fellow colleagues, alongside Microsoft representatives, who both will bring technical expertise and practical insight into how AI tools can be used safely and effectively.

The tech retailer’s initiative is delivered in partnership with community investment platform, Neighbourly, making it simple for charities to discover opportunities, register interest and take part. The platform is free to use and already connects thousands of vetted local charities with businesses across the UK & Ireland.

Currys’ new programme offers hands‑on, practical support to help charities move beyond experimentation and build real confidence in how AI can support their work. The initiative is supported by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), as Digital Skills Minister, Liz Lloyd explains:

"AI has the power to transform how charities deliver for the people and communities they serve, but only if they possess the skills and confidence to use it.

“By bringing free, practical AI training directly into local communities, Currys is helping ensure that charities can fully grasp this technology safely and responsibly to improve how they serve communities. This is exactly the kind of grassroots action that will help us meet our ambitions to upskill 10 million workers with AI skills by 2030 and build an AI-ready nation."

Research shows that AI adoption across the charity sector is showing no sign of slowing down, with use continuing to grow year on year among organisations of all sizes. However, the latest Charity Digital Skills Report highlights a growing challenge: while most charities are now using AI in some form, many are doing so without structured training, clear governance or leadership confidence. This risks creating an uneven playing field, where better resourced organisations benefit most, while smaller charities struggle to keep up.

The free, in‑store sessions will:

  • Provide practical, jargon‑free guidance on using AI tools responsibly
  • Be tailored to the needs and confidence levels of individual charities
  • Focus on real‑world use cases that will actually help charities, including saving time on admin, improving communications and supporting service delivery
  • Signpost charities to free, government‑backed AI safety and digital skills training, available to all

The programme will roll out across selected Currys stores throughout May, including Staples Corner and Newtownabbey, alongside a virtual offering in selected locations too. Charities can sign up via Neighbourly and register their interest in taking part. Places are limited.

By bringing AI skills directly into local stores, Currys aims to ensure charities are not only keeping up with technological change, but are equipped to use AI confidently, responsibly and for social good. As the Home of AI, Currys’ stores sit at the heart of the communities they serve, enabling deep local connections and practical, place‑based relevant support.

This initiative will support Government and industry efforts to upskill 10 million UK workers with AI skills through the AI Skills Boost scheme. Currys continues to build on its long-standing commitment to digital inclusion including through its work with the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) where we have already provided more than 3,000 laptops to families in need. Currys has also signed and taken part in the Government’s IT Reuse for Good Scheme, providing refurbished corporate laptops to those who need them most, as well as being among the first organisations to sign the DPA’s Digital Inclusion Charter.

“We see ourselves as the Home of AI – and that means making sure everyone can feel confident using it, including the charities doing such important work in our communities. Our colleagues are the experts in this space, helping customers understand technology every day, and our stores sit at the heart of local areas. There’s no better place, or better people, to be delivering practical, hands on AI training that charities can genuinely use. I’m thrilled to see this launch in stores and excited to see the benefits it brings.”

Moira Thomas, Group Sustainability & ESG Director, Currys

"AI has the potential to be a game-changer for the charity sector, but as technology moves at pace, there is a real risk that smaller, local causes could be left behind. At Neighbourly, we are committed to helping businesses and local good causes work together to create a lasting positive impact. This programme with Currys is a vital step in keeping the momentum behind closing the digital gap, providing charities with the hands-on expertise and confidence they need to use AI effectively." Steve Butterworth, CEO, Neighbourly

Notes to Editors:

About Neighbourly:

Neighbourly is a multi-award-winning social impact platform that helps businesses make a positive impact in their communities by donating volunteer time, money and surplus to a vetted network of over 45,000 local charities and community groups.