The School of Coding Secures Funding to Launch National AI Learning Lab

The School of Coding has been awarded significant funding to establish a state-of-the-art AI learning lab in central Birmingham, marking a major milestone in the company’s mission to democratize access to technology education.

• Key highlights of the funding include the fitting out of the new premises, the launch of the AI learning lab, and the creation of 50 new jobs in the year ahead.
• Other notable benefits of the funding include the development of a national network of tech hubs, the expansion of training programs to reach more businesses and individuals, and the empowerment of small businesses to drive growth.

This new facility will provide businesses of all sizes with the skills and knowledge they need to harness the potential of AI technology, a key driver of innovation and economic growth in the digital economy. **The Importance of AI in the Digital Economy**
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an essential component of the digital economy, with applications ranging from customer service and data analysis to predictive maintenance and supply chain optimization. As such, companies must develop the skills and expertise required to effectively utilize AI technology in order to remain competitive.

For example, many companies are now using AI-powered tools to automate routine tasks, such as data entry and customer service, freeing up staff to focus on more strategic and creative work. Additionally, AI can help businesses make data-driven decisions, by analyzing large datasets and identifying trends and patterns.

The School of Coding has been at the forefront of this development, delivering training programs on topics such as computer skills, digital entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, software development, and health tech.

The company’s founder and CEO, Manny Athwal, said: “AI is here to stay and it is essential that companies learn to use it ethically and in a way that will advance their business. Our aim is to democratize access to technology education, making it accessible to all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.”

“By providing sector-specific training to regional businesses, we can help them harness the benefits of AI and drive growth in the local economy. This new hub will be a vital resource for businesses, and we are excited to see the impact it will have on the community.

The new centre is expected to create 50 new jobs in the year ahead, and will be a major boost to the local economy.

• Key job creation benefits of the new centre include:
• Employment opportunities for local residents, contributing to the economic growth and development of the region.
• Increased tax revenue for the local authorities, supporting public services and infrastructure.
• Enhanced skills and expertise for local businesses, enabling them to compete in the global market.

David Tindall, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank, said: “The British Business Bank supports businesses with strong growth potential. This second round of funding underlines how the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II is continuing to empower small businesses as they continue to grow – in this case, leading the way in an industry that is continually developing.”
Ryan Cartwright of FDC added: “Manny and Sandeep have built a great business, one that is helping to deliver the digital skills we need to drive business growth and create a modern, prosperous economy. We are pleased to be able to support them with the launch of this new centre, which will be the first in the UK, and will provide sector-specific training to help regional businesses harness the benefits of AI.”
The funding will also support the development of a national network of tech hubs, with the aim of empowering small businesses to drive growth and innovation.

The School of Coding is a leading provider of technology education and training, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality programs to businesses and individuals around the world.

The company was founded in 2017 in Wolverhampton by Manny Athwal and his wife Sandeep. It has since expanded to offices in Telford, Dublin, and India, and delivers training in 17 countries. The company currently employs around 95 staff in the UK, with a further 200 overseas.

School of Coding previously received funding from the first Midlands Engine Investment Fund in 2023. This second round of funding will enable the company to further expand its operations and launch its new AI learning lab.

The School of Coding’s success is a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship, and highlights the importance of investing in technology education and training. As Manny Athwal notes, “AI is here to stay and it is essential that companies learn to use it ethically and in a way that will advance their business. Our aim is to democratize access to technology education, making it accessible to all, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.”
The future of technology education and training looks bright, with the launch of the School of Coding’s new AI learning lab marking a major milestone in the company’s mission to empower businesses and individuals to harness the potential of AI technology.