Empowering Futures:
Unlocking Opportunity Together
Microsoft and gener8tor are forging a brighter, more equitable future by delivering transformative programs that equip individuals with essential digital skills. Together, we’re creating career pathways that drive inclusive growth and community prosperity. Join us in shaping a more empowered economy!
Impact by Region
By The Numbers
Microsoft and gener8tor have been collaborating since 2020 to deliver digital skills and job placement support services. Every gener8tor Skills cohort runs like a sprint. It’s designed to be fast, focused, and flexible.
800+
MICROSOFT FUNDED PARTICIPANTS
OUT OF 3700+ TOTAL PARTICIPANTS
80%
GRADUATION RATE
60%
JOB PLACEMENT RATE 3MO+
$65,851
NATIONAL AVG. SALARY OF HIRED PARTICIPANTS
11
MICROSOFT FUNDED LOCATIONS ACROSS THE US
OUT OF 30 TOTAL LOCATIONS
Microsoft didn’t just fund training—they helped fuel economic mobility. Out of 3,700 learners, 800 were supported through Microsoft’s investment—and 4 out of 5 of them graduated with the skills and confidence to take their next big step. Even better? 3 out of every 5 job seekers secured a new role, earning an average salary of $65,851. That’s not just workforce development—that’s life-changing progress. This program opens doors to higher-wage jobs, sustainable careers, and long-term stability. Backed by live coaching, expert-led learning, and wraparound support in their own communities, learners aren’t just leveling up—they’re breaking cycles and building generational opportunity.
Real People. Real Progress.
This isn't just about jobs. It's about access, dignity, and long-term opportunity. Whether it's a single mom in San Antonio or a recent grad in South Boston, gener8tor Skills is a launching pad.
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“Enrolling in the gener8tor skills program was a game changer for my life. With my dedicated coach and the powerful gener8tor platform, I gained more than skills; I found a support system that’s hard to match. From resume help to mock interviews, they’ve given me the confidence to stand out and distinguish myself in the job market. Thank you, gener8tor!”
- Janri
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“After completing the Project Management program, I secured a job and recently advanced to Digital Platform Administrator II after also completing the AI Skills Accelerator program. Both programs were crucial in this journey. I'm incredibly grateful for the support and excited to give back as a mentor at the upcoming Lightning Rounds event. This experience has truly been transformative, and I can't wait to continue growing and connecting with the amazing gener8tor community."
- Michelle
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"I passed my second test! I just wanted to send a big thank you! I really appreciated the help and motivation you and the gener8tor team gave me! I would still have A+ Certification on my wish-list if it wasn't for the training and financial support. It truly made it possible. Thank you very much!"
- John
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"Thank you gener8tor and Microsoft for creating the skills accelerator programs! These programs have helped bridge the skills gap for many underemployed, and unemployed professionals. And thank you for the opportunity to tell my own story."
- Aslinn
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"I have had the pleasure of being a part of the skills team just over a year now and it is the most rewarding job that I have ever had!! Each program we run brings a new set of participants from all walks of life. I thoroughly enjoy getting to know each individual and helping them gain the confidence to excel in their life and with their career goals. So thankful to be a part of this team!"
- Andrea
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“I highly recommend the gener8tor Skills Accelerator to anyone looking to advance their career. The program offers not just valuable skills in areas like resume building, interviewing, and networking, but also an incredible support system. The team is genuinely invested in your success and provides personalized guidance every step of the way. The program helped me discover what I’m truly passionate about, build my confidence, and connect with a network of like-minded professionals. It's an empowering experience that equips you with both the tools and mindset needed to succeed in your career.”
- Jean
Who We Are?
We are a nationally-ranked venture capital firm and accelerator that brings together startup founders, investors, corporations, job seekers, universities, musicians and artists. The gener8tor platform includes more than 75 programs spanning startup accelerators, corporate programming, speaker series, conferences, skills accelerators and fellowships. gener8tor believes that everyone deserves opportunities, regardless of race, place or gender. And that is what we consider our mission.
Why We Do It?
Our mission is to be the best partner for a community to invest in its best and brightest. We envision communities achieving measurable and transformational growth through programming that enables equitable access and opportunity. We do what we do because we care about our communities.
How it Works
Since its launch, gener8tor Skills has grown into a repeatable playbook—powered by partnerships with workforce boards, housing nonprofits, employer coalitions, and community-based organizations nationwide. Every cohort runs like a sprint: fast, focused, and flexible. Over 6–10 weeks, participants dive into virtual training designed to build in-demand skills while receiving one-on-one career coaching from gener8tor’s expert staff. The program is built for unemployed and underemployed individuals with basic digital literacy who can commit 15–20 hours per week. And the support doesn’t stop at graduation—it follows learners into their job search and beyond, helping them turn training into transformation.
One-on-One Career Coaching
Receive concierge career coaching from the gener8tor team on the learning content, plus added help with interview skills, LinkedIn and resume writing.
Lunch & Learns
Learn from experts on a range of topics relevant to accelerating your career. Topics include interview best practices, making a career pivot, personal branding, and much more.
Access to a Network of Peers
Complete the course alongside a network of peers for support and community.
No Out-of-Pocket Cost
The gener8tor Skills program is provided at no out-of-pocket cost to eligible applicants through privately-funded scholarships and public innovative workforce programs at federal, state, and local levels.
Learn at Your Own Pace
Earn a gener8tor Skills Accelerator certificate by completing the program modules at your own pace during the cohort.
Job Placement Support
One-on-one career coaching and long-term job placement support from expert gener8tor staff and access to curated job openings.
Where We Work, Who Supports Us
Cheyenne, Wyoming
In Cheyenne and the surrounding region, gener8tor Skills has become a launchpad for learners looking to break into tech, pivot careers, or land jobs with real staying power. Since our first program in 2020, over 140 participants have joined our cohorts in IT Helpdesk, Project Management, Customer Service—and Data Analytics.
These aren’t just numbers. Behind them are stories of real people who’ve transformed their careers and economic futures. We’ve seen graduates land jobs in roles from Customer Support to Data Analyst, Web Developer, and even small business ownership. Our learners have gone on to work with an incredible mix of employers, including:
From Amanda at Lunavi to Sheila running her own photography business, and Sarah, who stepped into an IT Manager role at Popular Bank—these grads are not just getting placed; they’re leveling up their lives.
Microsoft plays a pivotal dual role in this success. The TechSpark team backs gener8tor's work supporting Cheyenne’s startup and innovation ecosystem, while the Data Center Community Affairs team supports our workforce development programming—ensuring that unemployed and underemployed residents gain the skills and support they need to thrive in today’s economy.
Our model blends flexible learning, live instruction from industry experts, and dedicated 1:1 coaching. It’s short. It’s sharp. And it’s reshaping what social mobility looks like in rural America.
In Partnership with Wyoming Women’s Business Center
Goodyear and Surrounding Areas
Through our partnership with Dysart Community Center, gener8tor Skills has trained over 70 adults in Goodyear and surrounding areas in high-demand fields like Project Management, Sales, Administrative Professional +AI and Data Analytics—resulting in 85%+ graduation rates and 70%+ job placement.
Dysart is the ultimate local partner that provides critical wraparound services like childcare, food access, English Language + GED programming allowing learners to fully commit to their growth.This spring we hosted am in-person graduation celebration where families, local officials, and alumni gathered to honor the life-changing power of this program through emotional testimonies and community pride. The event was a great success as witnessed in the photos below.
In Partnership with Dysart Community Center
Chicago, Illinois: Empowering Neurodivergent and Youth Talent
gener8tor Skills launched in Chicago with a focus on supporting neurodivergent learners—resulting in nearly 50 participants to date with 89% graduation rate. Most job-seeking graduates have landed full-time, quality employment.
We’re now expanding our impact with a new partnership with Align4Edu, launching our first pilot serving high school juniors and seniors near Hoffman Estates and Elk Grove Villiage supported by the Data Center Community Affairs team. This summer, 13 students will earn industry-recognized credentials in Project Management and IT Fundamentals, gain paid internships, and put their skills to use through work-based learning.
This pilot has the potential to scale nationally, as Align4Edu is part of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), the largest national education association dedicated to preparing youth and adults for careers.
In Partnership with Neighborhood Network Initiative | Alignment Collaborative for Education
Licking County, Ohio
With funding from Microsoft’s Data Center Community Affairs team, gener8tor Skills launched five cohorts in 2024–2025 offering Project Management and Administrative Professional training. Across these cohorts, 44 learners enrolled, with graduation rates as high as 84.6%.
Our local partner, United Way of Licking County, drove recruitment through 50+ community orgs, connected us to employers, and supported learners with wraparound services through their ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) services—including tech access and dedicated workstations.
The impact goes beyond the numbers—alumni are already giving back, working inside the very organizations that supported them, creating a powerful cycle of uplift and local impact. This is workforce development that stays rooted in the community it serves.
In Partnership with United Way of Licking COUNTY
Crystal, Project Management graduate, Project Coordinator-Highlights for Children
“I am grateful for this experience that taught me job market essential skills that built my confidence.”
Alexis, Project Management graduate is now an AI Tutor and Talent Partner- Kili Technology
“This course and the people I have interacted with has truly given me pride in myself and my abilities. I have been happier and more excited to see what my future holds.”
Southern Virginia
Since 2020, SOVA has delivered 13 cohorts to 253 participants in Halifax County—offering training in Project Management, Data Analytics, Customer Service & Sales, Administrative Professional, and IT Help tracks. With 173 graduates and 107 job-seeking alumni placed, the program has generated over $6.5 million in local economic impact in a county of just 35,000 people by preparing learners for roles like IT Support Specialist, Data Analyst, and Account Executives—fueling career mobility and strengthening the economic fabric of Halifax County.
Built through a shared collaboration between Microsoft’s TechSpark initiative and the Data Center Community Affairs team, SOVA reimagines the accelerator model for people—focusing on confidence, community, and career-ready skills.
The SOVA Innovation Hub has been a critical local partner, not only hosting the program completion celebration, but also providing co-working space and access to technology for participants throughout the program. Their team has led direct outreach to local organizations and media, helping amplify recruitment and program visibility across the region.
At this year’s celebration, two participants shared powerful stories about their personal journeys—and during the social hour, many others echoed the same themes of growth and transformation. One especially touching moment came when a participant’s young daughter proudly watched her mom walk across the stage, witnessing real-time generational healing and change. Check out the celebration photos below.
In Partnership with SOVA Innovation Hub
San Antonio, Texas: A Community Approach to Career Mobility
Since launching in 2023, gener8tor Skills San Antonio has supported 248 participants across high-growth career paths like IT Help Desk, Data Analytics, Customer Service & Sales, and Administrative Support—with 172 participants supported through Microsoft’s investment in digital upskilling for underrepresented communities.
But this isn’t a solo act. It's a deeply collaborative ecosystem—and at the heart of it is our powerhouse partner: YWCA San Antonio.How We Partner with YWCA
We work hand-in-hand with YWCA through the Women’s Live & Learn program, and other workforce grants, to ensure participants get what they need inside and outside the virtual classroom. Here's how they help:
Case Management & Wraparound Services: Each referred participant receives 1:1 support, addressing challenges like housing, childcare, transportation, or mental health.
Referrals: YWCA’s trusted network sends motivated learners our way, already equipped with the support systems to succeed.
Ongoing Support: Even after participants graduate, YWCA helps provide long-term scaffolding for success.
This model works. It ensures learners are more than just enrolled—they’re empowered.Expanded Reach Through Local Partners
Thanks to our Microsoft partnership, we’ve also been able to collaborate with Ready to Work SA and the City of San Antonio, working around rigid ZIP-code restrictions that often block access for those who need it most. This has opened doors for learners across the city to pursue flexible, skills-first training and land jobs that change lives.
In Partnership with YWCA of San Antonio
Graduate Results that Speak Volumes
Graduates Placed in Jobs: 85+
Placement Rate for Job-Seekers: 72%
Graduation Rate Across Cohorts: ~89%
Roles Secured: Customer Service Rep, Data Analyst, Help Desk Tech, HR Specialist, Tech Sales, even C-Suite leadership
Salaries Range: $40K–$120K+
Real People. Real Jobs. Some Standout Graduate Journeys:
Zuri – COO @ In Haus Ops ($120K)
Miguel – Tech Sales Intern @ Ascension ($72K)
Daniel – Network Analyst @ Dept. of Defense
Preethi – Jr. Data Engineer @ Lakeshore Learning
Mary Ann – Wellness Specialist @ 4Ever Young ($52K)
Behind every name is a story of reinvention. They came in with potential—and left with power.
Who We Serve
Women Participants: 148+
Participants of Color: 211+
Majority ages 25–59; Representation from youth and older adult learners
Parents, career-changers, first-gen professionals, and workers from industries hit hardest by economic shifts
We’re not just upskilling. We’re restoring confidence, rebuilding momentum, and helping learners reclaim their futures—together.
Check out some local testimonials below where you can put a face to a name and celebrate with them.
Meet Our Graduates
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Argentina
Data Analytics graduate, Data Entry Specialist, Self-Employed
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Kassandra
Data Analytics graduate, Insurance Verification Specialist and AI Trainer- Infinitus Systems, Inc
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Estefania
Data Analytics graduate, Membership Manager, El Paso Chamber
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Jennifer
Data Analytics graduate, Senior Reviewer, Prompt Analyst, Google
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Corey
Corey transformed his life through YWCA and Skills gener8tor programs, finding stability in IT and now helps others achieve their career goals. His journey shows that with the right support, anyone can unlock their true potential and make a lasting impact.
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Sandra
“The YWCA transformed my life and my children's lives. Their Ready to Work Program and Skills gener8tor's Data Analytics course helped me advance my career, resulting in a 20% salary increase. With their support, I managed bills, received a loaned laptop, and accessed essential services. This journey has been life-changing, allowing me to face future challenges with confidence. Thank you, YWCA, for helping me achieve my dreams.”
Racine County, Wisconsin
Since launching gener8tor Skills in late 2024, we’ve enrolled 31 learners across Racine County—with support from the Data Center Community Affairs team, breaking down barriers for young adults, mid‑career job seekers, and parents returning to the workforce.
Our impact hinges on United Way of Racine County, whose referrals and introductions to additional workforce agencies unlocked wraparound supports. This holistic network ensured learners could complete their cohorts and pursue advanced upskilling and employment.
We saw real momentum with local employers stepping up to hire or promote our grads:
Jessy became a Family Coach Supervisor at Safe Families for Children
Jose now serves as a Bilingual Client Retention Specialist at Beyond Finance
Dalesia stepped into a Claims Supervisor role at Brush County Claims
Sima works as a Global SAP Master Data Specialist at Dura‑Line
Across seven cohorts between May 2024 and April 2025, we maintained an average graduation rate above 80%, proving the model works.
“My coach was incredible. The advice I received gave me hope and direction in my career. I can’t recommend this program enough.”
– Jason Gendrich, Racine County, WI
To deepen outcomes, we’re giving job placement top priority—partnering with local workforce boards to secure additional funded seats (though current budgets prioritize non‑tech roles) and hosting networking mixers and virtual hiring events to connect grads directly with hiring managers.
What began as a small pilot has grown into a sustainable, inclusive talent pipeline across Southeastern Wisconsin—powered by Microsoft’s investment and amplified by trusted local partners committed to long‑term economic mobility.
In Partnership with United Way of Racine County
Sima-Project Management, Global Master Data Specialist-Dura-Line
“I was truly amazed to learn that such an amazing opportunity exists at a pivotal moment in my life-exploring new career paths and gaining insight from coaches was invaluable.”
Wisconsin: AI for Leaders - Scaling Smart, Leading Bold
In just six months, our AI for Leaders initiative in Wisconsin is crushing it. We’re already deep into our third cohort of 2025, bringing us to 165 leaders trained toward our goal of 1,000 statewide.
Here’s what that looks like in action:
3,960+ hours of learning logged
660 professional certificates earned
50+ real-world use cases developed — from workflow automation to smarter decision-making and AI-enhanced business operations.
These aren’t just one-and-done webinars — we’re embedding practical AI fluency into the DNA of local leadership, across industries and sectors. We’re not just checking boxes; we’re changing how leaders think, lead, and build for the future.
Wisconsin’s on the map, and we’re just getting warmed up.
Proven Real-World Impact
This program successfully transformed AI skepticism into action, equipping participants with the knowledge, confidence, and tools to drive AI adoption. The overwhelming recommendation rate and increase in AI leadership demonstrate its lasting impact on businesses and industries. Participants are eager to continue their learning journey and advocate for AI innovation within their networks.
85%
Optimistic View of AI, Up From 40%
75%
Adopters, Up From 0%
80%
Feel Prepared to Implement AI Tools
100%
Program Recommendation Rate
Success Story - Sargento: Elevating Customer Engagement Through AI
Sargento, a leader in the food industry, took a bold step into AI-driven transformation by joining our AI program. Their goal? To enhance customer interactions through an innovative data collection and engagement app. With Microsoft's cutting-edge AI resources, Sargento developed a customer-facing application that streamlined data insights and personalized engagement.
Their journey didn't stop there. In December, Sargento was invited to join our executives on a prestigious "Executives on a Plane" event in San Francisco. There, they took the stage to share their experience in front of LPs, VCs, and fellow industry leaders. Their success story showcased the real-world impact of AI adoption, inspiring others to explore AI-powered business solutions.
Success Story - Sub-Zero: Scaling AI Across Teams for Business Transformation
Inspired by Sargento’s success story at the San Francisco event, Sub-Zero recognized the potential of AI for their own business. This motivation led them to enroll over 10 employees in our AI program, with cohorts joining in both February and April.
Now, Sub-Zero’s cross-functional teams are leveraging Microsoft Copilot tools to develop AI agents that enhance R&D project development, streamline internal IT initiatives, and optimize supply chain operations. By fostering AI adoption across multiple business units, Sub-Zero is driving efficiency, innovation, and long-term growth.
Sargento EXECUTIVE Sharing program sentiment to fellow industry leaders
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