Reshaping education for the AI era will take teamwork

The Atlassian Foundation has opened a call for proposals until 30 October 2026, inviting nonprofits to collaborate on reshaping education for the AI era. Partnerships will focus on initiatives that bridge gaps for learners currently underserved by traditional systems. Each selected project may receive up to US$1 million in funding over two years, alongside access to a learning cohort and non-financial support such as Atlassian tools and expertise.

UNESCO reports that 57% of children globally—nearly one billion—lack basic literacy, numeracy, and socio-emotional skills, while OECD data shows student performance in reading and mathematics at historic lows. AI presents an opportunity to expand access to quality learning, strengthen teacher capabilities, and create economic pathways, but risks deepening inequities if implemented poorly. The foundation emphasizes that incremental changes are insufficient and calls for transformative, collaborative solutions involving schools, nonprofits, governments, and communities.

Atlassian positions itself as uniquely equipped to support collective action, drawing on over two decades of expertise in teamwork and collaboration. The foundation will provide funding, tools, and support to initiatives that align with its mission to unlock potential through teamwork. Examples include partnerships to develop AI career coaching for underserved youth, deliver AI literacy in Indian government schools, and mobilize educators globally to shape classroom AI use.

Applications are open globally to registered nonprofits meeting three specified criteria. Successful applicants will receive up to US$1 million over two years, participate in a learning cohort for peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, and gain access to Atlassian tools and expertise. Notifications of outcomes will be sent by 31 March 2027 AEDT. Details, including eligibility and application steps, are available in the Application Guide and through scheduled webinars.