NCOA & IBM: Opening More Doors—Together

Across the country, community organizations are helping older adults explore new opportunities through technology and learning.

Through Powering Possibilities: SkillsBuild for Older Adults, NCOA, in partnership with IBM, has selected 25 organizations that are working directly with older adults in their communities to build digital confidence and strengthen skills for everyday life and work.

These organizations represent the heart of their communities—senior centers, libraries, workforce development agencies, and nonprofit service providers. Together, they are creating welcoming spaces where older adults can explore technology, ask questions, and build new skills at their own pace.

Participants in the program will be introduced to IBM SkillsBuild, a free online learning platform that offers courses on topics such as digital confidence, workplace skills, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.

With guidance from local organizations, older adults can:

• Get started with the IBM SkillsBuild platform
• Explore courses aligned with their personal or career goals
• Participate in workshops, coaching, or group learning sessions
• Build practical technology skills they can use every day

In addition to funding, grantees receive support from NCOA including implementation guidance, outreach resources, technical assistance, and opportunities to learn from peer organizations across the country.

Together, these partners are working to expand digital access and ensure older adults have the confidence and tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Meet the Powering Possibilities grantees

The following organizations were selected to participate in Powering Possibilities: SkillsBuild for Older Adults.

What grantees will do

Each participating organization will work directly with older adults in their communities to support learning and engagement through IBM SkillsBuild.

Activities may include:

• Hosting enrollment events to help older adults get started on the platform
• Facilitating workshops or technology learning sessions
• Providing one-on-one coaching and guidance
• Creating peer learning opportunities such as tech cafés or small group discussions
• Supporting participants as they explore courses and learning pathways

Organizations will also track participation and share insights and success stories that highlight how older adults are using technology learning to build confidence and expand opportunities.

Strengthening communities through lifelong learning

Technology continues to shape how we work, connect, and access opportunities. By partnering with trusted community organizations, Powering Possibilities: SkillsBuild for Older Adults helps ensure older adults are included in this digital future.

Together, NCOA, IBM, and our community partners are helping older adults take small steps that can lead to meaningful growth—whether that’s learning a new skill, exploring career opportunities, or simply feeling more confident navigating today’s digital world.