Microsoft will provide technology training to up to 2 million people over the next three years to help them succeed in the 21st century economy.

The initiative, called Elevate America, will offer a website where people can understand the technical skills they will need for the jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities of today and tomorrow and provide the resources to help acquire these skills.

The Web site, http://www.microsoft.com/ElevateAmerica, provides access to several Microsoft online training programs, including how to use the Internet, send e-mail and create a resume, as well as more advanced programs on using specific Microsoft applications.

The Microsoft initiative also will provide help in partnership with state governments including those of Washington, Florida and New York.

“Elevate America is a great example of Microsoft’s leadership on education and work force development – issues that bring us a step closer to recovery by helping us provide critically important help to our citizens,” Gov. Chris Gregoire said in a news release.

More than half of today’s jobs require some technology skills and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic estimates that number will reach 77 percent in the next decade.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more people than ever are pursuing Microsoft technical certifications. As part of the Elevate America effort, Microsoft is providing 1 million Microsoft Learning vouchers for free access to Microsoft eLearning courses and select certification exams. Utilization requires an Internet connection and Internet connection fees may apply.

The offering also includes the following:

Expanded access to basic technology literacy and skills training.

Basic-level information technology training resources through Microsoft Unlimited Potential and Digital Literacy curricula.

Intermediate technology skills training courses, online and instructor-led, plus selected certification exams.

Vouchers for eLearning course collections offered by Microsoft.

Vouchers for certification exams leading to Microsoft business certification.

Grants of cash and software to community partners to build in-classroom training capacity.

Discounted membership rates for institutions participating in the Microsoft IT Academy program.

Access to a new Web portal that will help guide individuals to training and resources that position them for success in the economy today and tomorrow.