The French government has launched an €80 million plan to help workers, jobseekers, and businesses adapt to the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The 12-point programme focuses on training, support for businesses, social dialogue, and working conditions, with a particular emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises and apprentices. This initiative aims to address concerns that new inequalities could emerge between larger firms with the resources to invest in AI and smaller businesses that risk being left behind.
According to the national statistics agency INSEE, only 18 percent of French businesses used at least one AI-related technology in 2025, which is around half the rate recorded in Europe's most advanced countries. The Labour Ministry has been asked to find €2.5 billion in savings as part of the 2027 budget. Officials close to the ministry said the measures selected were those expected to deliver the strongest return on investment, while creating tools and frameworks that could later be adopted more widely.
Around half of the newly announced measures are aimed at helping workers become more familiar with AI and understand how it could affect their jobs. A free online platform called Explore AI is to be launched by Pix, the French public digital skills service, allowing users to test their knowledge and follow interactive learning programmes. This platform will help workers assess their AI skills and identify areas for improvement.
The government also plans to provide additional financial support to CFA centres offering training in skills considered important for accelerating the adoption of AI, including cybersecurity. Jobseekers will also be offered an AI “readiness” assessment through the France Travail employment agency, followed by a personalised training pathway based on their results. This will help jobseekers develop the skills needed to work with AI and increase their employability.
The government plans to make artificial intelligence a national priority within France's Personal Training Account, or CPF, which allows workers to build up financial credits for professional training. Higher levels of co-funding are expected to reduce the amount individuals have to pay themselves when enrolling in AI-related courses. This will make it easier for workers to access AI training and develop the skills needed to work with AI.
Dedicated “business task forces” will work with small and medium-sized companies to increase awareness of how AI can be used in the workplace, including in recruitment. Professional sectors will also receive support to organise discussions between employers and workers on the introduction of AI and its impact on jobs and working conditions. This will help businesses understand the benefits and challenges of AI and develop strategies for implementation.
The initiative forms part of a broader effort by the French government to encourage companies and employees to make greater use of artificial intelligence, while ensuring that the transition does not widen existing gaps between businesses, workers, and sectors. The government hopes that this initiative will help France stay competitive in the global economy and ensure that the benefits of AI are shared by all.
Key points
- France launches €80m plan to boost AI skills in the workplace
- Initiative aims to address concerns about new inequalities emerging between larger and smaller businesses
- Plan includes training and support for workers, jobseekers, and businesses to adapt to growing use of AI
