Start free. Then level up.
These are the best free and low-cost places to start learning AI, coding, IT and business tech, hand-picked by Technology in Color. Every resource below lists what it actually costs. When you're ready for a guided path, Nia's 1-minute quiz will point you to the right AI Academy course.
Not sure where to start? Take Nia's free 1-minute quiz and get your personal AI path.
Take the quizLearn what AI is and how to use it
Elements of AI
Plain-language online courses on what AI is, what it can and can't do, and how it's built. Created by MinnaLearn and the University of Helsinki.
Free Visit Elements of AIIntroduction to Generative AI (Google)
A 45-minute intro to generative AI, how it differs from traditional machine learning, and Google's AI tools. Earn a skill badge when you finish.
Free · about 45 minutes Start on Google SkillsAI For Everyone (DeepLearning.AI on Coursera)
A beginner course by Andrew Ng on what AI means for your work and life. No technical background needed. About 7 hours.
Free to join · certificate costs extra View on CourseraWant a guided path? AI Academy Level 1: AI Basics is $33 for founding students (regular $47). Course access by December 1, 2026, or a full refund.
Pre-order Level 1Learn to code from zero
freeCodeCamp
Self-paced lessons and projects in web design, JavaScript, Python, databases and more, with certifications along the way.
Free, including certifications Start on freeCodeCampHarvard CS50
Harvard's famous intro to computer science. Finish the work and CS50 gives you its own certificate.
Free · edX verified certificate costs extra Visit CS50Break into IT and help desk
Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Coursera)
Beginner-level program with 6 courses, about 3 months at 10 hours a week.
Free trial, then a Coursera subscription · financial aid available View on CourseraProfessor Messer: CompTIA A+
Free video training for CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202).
Videos free · CompTIA exams are paid Watch on Professor MesserTryHackMe
Hands-on cybersecurity practice in your browser.
Free account with free rooms · Premium is paid Visit TryHackMeRun and grow your business
SBA Learning Center
Online courses from the U.S. Small Business Administration on planning, starting, running and growing a business, plus financing options.
Free Visit SBASCORE
One-on-one mentoring from volunteer business experts, plus workshops, webinars and templates.
Mentoring free · some workshops low-cost Find a mentorHubSpot Academy
Courses and certifications in social media marketing, SEO, digital ads and sales.
Free Visit HubSpot AcademyOwn a business? The AI Academy's AI for Small Business track shows you how to use AI for marketing, customer service and admin. Join the list to hear when it opens.
Join the AI Academy listCosts were checked in October 2026 and can change, so confirm on each provider's site. Technology in Color isn't affiliated with these providers and earns nothing from these links.