REDMOND — Microsoft is rolling out a major new initiative aimed at ensuring every Washingtonian — from teachers and students to rural communities — has access to artificial intelligence tools and training. The program, called Microsoft Elevate Washington, seeks to close the widening gap in AI usage revealed by a new analysis from Microsoft’s AI for Good Lab.
AI Usage Divides WashingtonAccording to the study, AI adoption varies sharply across the state. Snohomish County leads Washington with 35% of its working-age population using AI, followed by King (32.1%), Whatcom (31.9%), and Pierce (30.6%). But in many rural areas, adoption remains in the single digits. Ferry County ranks lowest at 2.5%, a tenfold difference compared to the most connected counties.
Closer to central Washington, Grant County reports 22.6% of working-age residents using AI, Douglas County 28.2%, Adams County 10.6%, Chelan County 25.2%, Kittitas County 17%, Okanogan County 9.3%, and Lincoln County 6%.
“These numbers tell a story of opportunity,” Microsoft said in a statement. “The communities leading in AI adoption are already benefiting from new efficiencies, while others risk being left behind.”
Credit: Microsoft
Investing in Washington’s FutureThe company says the effort is part of a homegrown commitment to its founding state — one that has long served as a launchpad for innovation. “For more than a century, Washington has punched above its weight,” Microsoft noted, referencing the state’s history of leadership in aerospace, technology, and global retail. “Now, as AI reshapes the world, Washington again stands at the edge of transformation.”
The new Elevate Washington program is designed to ensure that transformation reaches every classroom, educator, and community college. Starting in January 2026, Microsoft will provide Copilot Studio — a no-code AI agent-building tool — free for up to three years to all 295 school districts and 34 community colleges across the state. The tool allows administrators to create AI assistants that can help with class planning, scheduling, and data analysis.
Ten school districts and ten community colleges will also receive $25,000 in technology consulting grants to help build custom AI agents tailored to their operations.
AI Access for StudentsHigh school students in grades 9–12 will gain free access for three years to Microsoft 365 apps, Copilot Chat, and Teams for Education beginning July 2026. These resources include AI-driven reading, writing, and problem-solving tools designed to improve literacy, critical thinking, and digital fluency.
Community college students statewide will also be eligible for a 12-month free subscription to Microsoft 365 Personal, including Copilot integration across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other productivity tools. That package, ailable through November 15, 2025, includes 1TB of OneDrive cloud storage, Microsoft Defender, and access to Designer for creative projects.
Training for EducatorsMicrosoft will also invest in professional development for educators through partnerships with the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), the Washington Education Association (WEA), and the National Education Association (NEA). These training programs will focus on using AI to streamline administrative tasks and enhance instruction.
The company plans to sponsor an AI Innovation Summit — a statewide conference uniting more than 1,000 educators, administrators, and policymakers to discuss AI adoption and best practices.
A Broader MovementMicrosoft Elevate Washington builds on the global Microsoft Elevate initiative announced in July, a $4 billion commitment over five years to support schools, nonprofits, and colleges with technology, training, and cloud services.
The company is also working with Code.org to expand its “Hour of AI” program in Washington classrooms and plans to rally its 50,000 employees statewide to mentor and lead student innovation workshops.
A Commitment to EquityMicrosoft says its mission is about more than technology — it’s about ensuring equal opportunity in an AI-driven world. “In tomorrow’s economy, those who understand and use AI will do better than those who don’t,” the company stated.
By providing these tools and training free of charge, Microsoft hopes to empower the next generation of Washington students and teachers — and to ensure that whether you live in Seattle or Soap Lake, the opportunities of the AI era are within reach.
“Washington has always been a place where big ideas take flight,” the company concluded. “This time, we’re investing to make sure everyone in our state has the wings to soar.”