Powering Possibilities: SkillsBuild for Older Adults
NCOA & IBM: Opening More Doors—Together
Powering Possibilities: SkillsBuild for Older Adults is a grant opportunity from NCOA, in partnership with IBM, that helps older adults build confidence with technology and develop skills they can use in everyday life and work. We’re inviting community-based nonprofits and government organizations to apply for funding to support older adults as they explore IBM SkillsBuild—a free, easy-to-use online learning platform.
Selected organizations will work directly with older adults to:
- Get started easily by enrolling in IBM SkillsBuild, an online technology learning program.
- Explore course options and discover learning pathways that match real-life goals.
- Stay supported with group events, one-on-one coaching, and hands-on guidance.
- Build real skills they can use every day—both online and in the workplace.
In addition to grant funding, organizations will receive guidance, technical assistance, and opportunities to connect with peers—all aimed at expanding digital access, confidence, and lifelong learning in their communities.
Who is eligible to apply for funding?
- Community-based nonprofit or governmental organizations, such as senior centers, aging services agencies, workforce agencies, libraries, or adult education programs.
- Organizations that serve older adults and reach those who can benefit from digital learning—whether they are workers, jobseekers, caregivers, or individuals looking to boost their technology skills.
How much funding can my organization apply for?
A total of 25 organizations will be selected to receive funding. Applicants can choose the tier that fits your capacity—based on how many older adults you can confidently enroll and support.
| Tier | Participants | Grant Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 350 | $10,000 |
| Tier 2 | 250 | $7,500 |
| Tier 3 | 150 | $5,000 |
All participants must complete enrollment and engage with at least one learning opportunity on the platform. To qualify, organizations should demonstrate:
- The ability to enroll the required number of participants.
- A clear plan for outreach, engagement, and participant support.
- Staff or volunteers who can manage enrollment, troubleshoot basic issues, and guide participants through learning pathways.
What will grantees be expected to do?
REQUIRED ACTIVITIES
Grantees must:
- Enroll the required number of older adults in the online technology learning program for their tier.
- Provide guidance to participants about program offerings and available learning pathways.
- Offer engagement opportunities such as workshops, coaching, or group sessions.
- Track participation using NCOA-provided tools.
- Submit monthly reports including enrollment numbers, engagement activities, outreach efforts, and success stories.
- Participate in orientation, training, and networking sessions with NCOA and fellow grantees.
- Allow site visits by NCOA staff if requested.
PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY
Organizations have the freedom to choose strategies that best fit their community’s needs. Examples include:
- Enrollment clinics
- Workshops
- Workforce-related technology sessions
- Peer-led tech cafés
- Orientation events
- Intergenerational support programs
- Community outreach at partner sites
What support will NCOA provide?
Selected grantees will receive:
- Program orientation and onboarding
- Best practices and implementation guidance
- Templates for outreach and participant communication
- Opportunities to connect with other grantees
- Ongoing technical assistance throughout the grant period
How can grant funds be used?
Grant funds are flexible and may be used for:
- Staff time for outreach, enrollment, support, and reporting
- Supplies or technology for group or individual support
- Space rental for outreach or education events
- Participant engagement incentives
- Printing or communications activities
- Reasonable indirect costs
When does the program take place?
The performance period runs February 1, 2026 – October 12, 2026 (or alternate dates if preferred).
How do you apply and when are applications due?
Applications are now open and organization can apply by using NCOA's online application portal.
Application Timeline:
- January 9, 2026: RFP launches and the application portal opens
- January 23, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET): Application portal closes
- January 26–30, 2026: Application review period
- February 6–27, 2026: Award notifications sent and contracts finalized
- March 1, 2026: Program launches with participating community-based organizations
For questions or more information, please contact NCOA at powering.possibilities@ncoa.org.
Experience IBM SkillsBuild Before Guiding Others
Before sharing IBM SkillsBuild with older adults in your community, explore the free courses yourself. Start with Digital Mindset to build your tech confidence, adapt to new tools, and strengthen skills—so you’ll be fully prepared to guide and support participants effectively.