They're looking for more than 2,000 entrepreneurs and young business owners to study artificial intelligence for free: how to apply to improve your skills

Colombia faces a key challenge in its preparation for the digital economy. According to the AI Readiness Index, the country ranks 55th in the world with a score of 59.3 out of 100 .
In turn, the Corona Foundation estimates that by the end of this year, more than 162,000 information technology professionals will be needed to meet market demand.
The contrast is striking: while 70% of local businesses already incorporate artificial intelligence into customer service, marketing, or operations processes, only 18% of citizens have experimented with these tools . Although 92% of the population has mobile internet coverage, this connectivity has not yet translated into productivity or employability.
The international landscape presents a similar challenge. The State of AI in Business 2025 report indicates that only 5% of AI pilots worldwide generate concrete financial results. The problem isn't the technology itself, but the lack of skilled talent capable of implementing it effectively.
The conclusion is clear: without training, there is no transformation . In this scenario, free training programs become an urgent strategy to expand access to the skills required by the future workforce.

Free technology courses seek to democratize digital skills in the country. Photo: Henry
Among the most notable options is the course offered by Henry, which will take place from September 16 to 18 , with registration available until the 15th.
Up to 2,000 free spots will be available for participants to learn how to create automated workflows with artificial intelligence that can be applied to their work, their own business, or their everyday life. Registration can be completed through the following link: https://soyhenry.typeform.com/aiautomation
The program requires no prior knowledge. All you need is to be over 18, have a stable internet connection, and be motivated to learn . "We want talent to emerge from every corner of the country, regardless of whether someone comes from the rural world, a traditional career, or a non-tech sector," says Martín Borchardt, founder of Henry.
The course's purpose is summed up in a specific objective: "The goal is concrete: for each participant to create their first AI flow and build a portfolio that will open career paths," explains Valentín Ferrando, co-founder of Obel and program instructor.

Ninety-two percent of Colombia's population has mobile internet access, but doesn't yet use it for productive purposes. Photo: iStock
- SenaTIC 2025: The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MinTIC), in partnership with the International Labor Organization and companies such as Google, AWS, Meta, IBM, Microsoft, Fortinet, Cisco, and Oracle, launched a platform with completely free courses with no prerequisites. The program includes training in programming, emerging technologies, digital experience, and cybersecurity.
- AvanzaTEC 2025: With registration open until September 15, this Ministry of ICT program offers 52 virtual courses in data analytics, the Internet of Things, applied artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, among others. Course duration ranges from 20 to 159 hours, with official certification upon completion.
- Tech Talent: Active nationwide, this Ministry of ICT program offers more than 37,000 spots in free bootcamps, both virtual and in-person, in high-demand areas such as programming, blockchain, data analysis, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence.
- Talento Capital – Bogotá (IBM SkillsBuild): The Ministry of Economic Development, in partnership with IBM, is holding a call for applications with 4,800 free spots for residents of the capital. Courses include artificial intelligence, web development with Python, cybersecurity, and agile methodologies.
- SENA – Short Programming Courses (Betowa): The institution offers free online courses of up to 40 hours in object-oriented programming, Java, C++, and programming methodologies. They are available year-round, except during academic breaks.
*This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence.
More news in EL TIEMPOeltiempo