DECA Inc. is proud to announce an $85,000 grant was awarded by IBM SkillsBuild, an innovative online learning platform designed to equip DECA members and advisors with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Through this exciting collaboration, all DECA members and advisors will gain free access to IBM SkillsBuild’s library of interactive courses, digital learning modules and recognized industry credentials.
During the 2025-2026 school year, IBM and DECA aim to help at least 3,500 students engage with IBM SkillsBuild courses and give every DECA advisor access to AI resources, curriculum and lesson planning tools, and the ability to earn credentials for professional development.
“This partnership represents a powerful opportunity to meet DECA’s mission of preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs through IBM’s innovation in workforce readiness training and credentials,” said Sarah Cozewith, Chief Partnership Officer. “Together, we’re helping students develop in-demand technical and essential professional skills and giving educators the resources to integrate these robust tools directly into the classroom.”
Through this partnership, DECA and IBM SkillsBuild will offer:
- Free Courses and Credentials - Students and advisors can explore courses in technology, business, leadership, and career readiness while earning recognized digital credentials.
- Incentives for Participation - DECA members and advisors will be able to unlock special incentives and recognition for completing courses.
- Classroom Integration - Teachers can seamlessly embed IBM SkillsBuild into their DECA chapters and classroom curriculum, offering real-world applications for career and technical education.
- Teacher Toolkits - Advisors will have access to dedicated toolkits with lesson ideas, activity guides and strategies to support classroom use.
- Scholarship opportunities - Students who earn a digital credential on the platform have the opportunity to earn a scholarship.
By providing this no-cost access to IBM SkillsBuild, DECA and IBM are empowering the next generation of leaders with the skills and credentials to stand out in college, career and beyond.
DECA advisors can preview the platform by registering and completing the activity provided in this link. To sign into the platform, follow these steps:
- Already registered? Log in using your preferred method and click on the blue rectangle button on the right-hand side that says “Go to Activity”
- New to SkillsBuild? Sign up and then click on the blue rectangle button on the right-hand side that says “Go to Activity”
A collection of additional, curated DECA-aligned courses and advisor resources will be available to registered advisors in the coming weeks.
