Google-Backed Initiative to Offer 500 Free Tech Certifications in Miami-Dade and Broward

A new workforce development initiative backed by Google's Grow with Google program will provide 500 free professional certifications to residents of Miami-Dade and Broward counties, expanding access to technology education across South Florida.

The program brings together Miami-based professional development organization The Source, nonprofit Get Tech Knowledge and Grow with Google to help residents develop skills increasingly sought by employers.

Applications are scheduled to open in November 2026.

The initiative is designed for participants seeking to enter the technology workforce, transition into new industries or strengthen their existing professional qualifications. A college degree or previous technology experience is not required.

Three Career Pathways

The training will offer three specialized tracks covering different areas of the digital economy.

The Build pathway focuses on user experience design, project management and digital marketing, targeting participants interested in creating and managing digital products.

The Data pathway covers data analytics, business intelligence and related skills that help companies use information to guide operational and strategic decisions.

The Tech pathway includes IT support, cybersecurity and IT automation using Python, providing participants with training relevant to technical and information security roles.

Coursework will be delivered through Coursera, allowing students to complete much of the training online while balancing employment and other commitments.

Individual certification programs are expected to take approximately three to six months to complete.

Miami Workshops and Professional Networking

The certification initiative will also be integrated into Tech Tuesdays, an existing series of professional development and networking events in downtown Miami.

Participants will have opportunities to attend workshops, connect with other professionals and learn about career opportunities in technology-related fields.

The program also plans intensive workshops covering people management and artificial intelligence before the end of 2026.

Hilmon Sorey, technology entrepreneur and founder of The Source, has emphasized the importance of helping professionals build verifiable digital skills as workplace requirements evolve.

Building South Florida's Technology Workforce

The program comes as South Florida continues efforts to expand its technology workforce and strengthen the region's position as a destination for technology businesses.

For local employers, initiatives that make professional training more accessible could help develop a broader pool of candidates with technical and digital qualifications.

For residents, the free certifications offer an alternative pathway into technology careers without the financial commitment typically associated with traditional degree programs.

The initiative does not guarantee employment, but it aims to provide recognized credentials and practical training that participants can use when pursuing new opportunities.

Additional application details are expected to be made available through Get Tech Knowledge ahead of the planned November launch.