Google converts double decker bus into free digital training hub for start-ups

Google has announced it will travel around the UK in a converted double decker bus, and offer free digital skills training to all who enter its pop-up hub.

The Google Digital Garage Bus will visit over 30 locations across the UK, offering face-to-face digital skills coaching to entrepreneurs who both book in advance, as well as walk-in.

The training ranges from beginner to intermediate levels, with such topics including ‘taking your first steps online’, ‘how to build your CV and personal brand online’, and ‘social media strategy’.

In partnership with Sheffield City Council, and part of Google’s ‘Digital Garage’ initiative, the bus will initially tour South Yorkshire.

Alina Dimofte, digital skills policy lead at Google, said:

“Following our ongoing success in getting people engaged and learning via our high street Digital Garages in Sheffield and Birmingham, we wanted to make our training even more accessible, so have started the bus tour to take training right to people’s doorsteps.

“Ashbourne in the Derbyshire Dales is a brilliant place to kick off this tour, as despite its obvious beauty, digital connectivity can be a challenge, with almost 70% of people in the dales unable to access 4G services. Whilst 12% have never been online and 23% lack the five Basic Digital Skills.”

Patrick McLoughlin, MP for the Derbyshire Dales and chairman of the Conservative party, said:

“I am delighted to be launching the Google Digital Garage Bus Tour here in Ashbourne. Everyone should be able to benefit from the digital revolution, and digital skills are crucial in today’s economy. We often hear about opportunities available to those in large towns and cities which do not make their way to more rural communities.

“This bus tour means that we can bring Google’s expertise to smaller towns across the region, ensuring local people and businesses have the tools they need to build their skills, get ahead online and grow their businesses. Digital skills will be vital in growing rural communities, and I’d encourage everyone to sign up to take advantage of this opportunity.”