SureStart

SureStart is a U.S.-based education company dedicated to creating early opportunity pipelines for a diverse technology workforce through technical skills training and project-based learning in artificial intelligence (AI). Founded by Dr. Taniya Mishra, an experienced AI scientist, SureStart focuses on increasing diversity and equity in AI by mentoring high school and college students from underrepresented communities. The company offers a virtual AI training program that consists of two main phases: "Train" and "Build." In the "Train" phase, students follow a self-paced curriculum covering AI concepts and receive mentoring from professionals. The "Build" phase allows students to apply their skills by developing AI-based solutions during collaborative events. This comprehensive approach provides students with technical training, hands-on experience, and career connection opportunities. SureStart also partners with tech companies to create a pipeline of diverse, trained future employees skilled in AI and machine learning. This partnership model benefits companies by reducing hiring time and costs while enhancing their diversity, equity, and inclusion culture through employee engagement in mentoring.