Tech:NYC Launches Third Decoded Futures Cohort, Empowering 20 NYC Nonprofits with AI Training and Tools
As AI reshapes industries across the globe, Tech:NYC is ensuring that New York City’s nonprofit sector isn’t left behind.
Today, the Tech:NYC Foundation — with support from the Robin Hood Learning + Technology Fund, Google.org, Salesforce, and the Altman Foundation — announced the third cohort of Decoded Futures, a groundbreaking initiative equipping nonprofits with the knowledge, tools, and networks to adopt AI to scale their impact.
Over the next two months, 20 mission-driven organizations will participate in a robust program of hands-on training, technical workshops, and peer learning sessions, all designed to turn AI curiosity into action.
Thanks to a $1 million grant from Google.org, each nonprofit will receive a grant of $5,000, with the opportunity to apply for up to $100,000 in follow-on funding to support their long-term implementation of AI-powered solutions.
“The enthusiasm surrounding the third Decoded Futures cohort highlights just how powerful AI can be in advancing the public good,” said Julie Samuels, President and CEO of Tech:NYC. “At Tech:NYC, we’re committed to making sure nonprofits have access to the latest technologies. Building on what we learned from previous cohorts, we’re excited to support this new group of organizations as they develop innovative, AI-driven solutions to address some of New York City’s most pressing issues.”
The latest Decoded Futures cohort features a dynamic group of nonprofits committed to leveraging AI to scale their services. It includes:
AdmissionSquad
All Star Code
Bronx Children's Museum
Brooklyn Public Library
Center for Family Life in Sunset Park
Center For Supportive Schools
Citizens’ Committee for Children of New York
Do Something
Echoing Green
Girls Inc of NYC
HeartShare Human Services of NY
Innocence Project
KindWork (Leap Inc. dba Brooklyn Workforce Innovations)
NPower
Ownership Works
Relay Graduate School
Services for the UnderServed (S:US)
Student Success Network
United Neighborhood Houses of New York
Welcome to Chinatown
This third cohort reflects a broader vision for Decoded Futures: To be an on-ramp for any NYC nonprofit looking to responsibly integrate AI into its work. While past cohorts focused on education and workforce development, this round opens the door to organizations across issue areas, from housing and healthcare to immigration and the arts.
“Nonprofits across New York City are leading critical work, but many don’t have the bandwidth or resources to explore how AI can support their missions,” said Bryan Lozano, Director of the Tech:NYC Foundation. “We’re bridging that gap by equipping them with the tools, training, and expert guidance they need. By fostering collaboration between AI professionals and nonprofit leaders, we’re building an ecosystem where technology amplifies impact and drives meaningful change for New Yorkers.”
The momentum is building. In its first year, Decoded Futures has already trained dozens of nonprofit leaders and seen remarkable results: In Cohort 2, 90% of participants said they planned to continue using Decoded Futures’ AI frameworks post-program, and reported a 50% increase in comfort working with AI.
“Decoded Futures is helping to close the gap between nonprofit ambition and AI expertise,” said Amber Oliver, Managing Director of the Robin Hood Learning + Technology Fund. “In just a few months, it has moved education and workforce organizations from AI curiosity to building their own tools. That kind of practical, accelerated learning is exactly what’s needed to ensure New York’s nonprofits can keep pace with innovation and deliver smarter, faster, and more lasting results for the communities they serve.”
This is only the beginning. New York City is home to over 46,000 nonprofits, and demand for AI learning is high: A 2023 Robin Hood survey revealed that while 85% of nonprofits are eager to learn more about AI, only 15% have had the opportunity. Decoded Futures is here to close that gap.
“With our third cohort, Decoded Futures is deepening its commitment to making AI an accessible, practical tool for nonprofits,” said Jenni Warren, Program Director of Decoded Futures. “We’re helping mission-driven organizations harness AI to scale their impact, serve their communities more effectively, and shape a future where technology drives lasting social impact.”
Want to Get Involved?
If you work in tech and want to contribute your skills to help nonprofits integrate AI, contact Jenni Warren at jenni@technyc.org.