Electricals and technology retailer Currys announces new AI charity skills programme
UK omnichannel retailer Currys is launching a new programme that aims to help charities build the confidence, skills and practical know‑how to use AI as adoption across the sector accelerates.
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 its specially trained colleagues, alongside Microsoft representatives.
The tech retailer’s initiative is delivered in partnership with Neighbourly. The platform is free to use and connects thousands of vetted local charities with businesses across the UK & Ireland. It is supported by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
Digital Skills Minister, Liz Lloyd, says: "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."
Moira Thomas, Group Sustainability & ESG Director at Currys, says: “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.”
Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, says: "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. 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."
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
AI will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
