Digital Equity Accelerator: Advancing Inclusive Access to Technology
In an increasingly digital society, individuals lacking access to technology and essential digital skills are often excluded from critical economic and social opportunities. The Digital Equity Accelerator is a program designed to empower nonprofits focused on expanding digital inclusion, helping them amplify their impact.
Since its inception in 2022, the Digital Equity Accelerator has supported 27 nonprofit organizations across nine countries, collectively expanding their reach by over 8.1 million people. For its 2025 initiative, the program will prioritize nonprofits operating in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain.
Program Benefits
Selected nonprofits will gain access to:
- Financial Support: Capacity-building grants of USD $100,000 per organization.
- Technology Resources: HP technology valued at approximately USD $100,000.
- Six-Month Virtual Program: Comprehensive support that includes:
- Training sessions tailored to strengthening organizational capacity.
- Mentorship with experienced professionals.
- Technical consultations to help scale digital equity efforts.
Eligibility Criteria
Nonprofits and NGOs operating in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, or Spain and committed to advancing digital equity are invited to apply for the 2025 program. Organizations must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Legal Registration: Must hold valid registration as a not-for-profit organization.
- Funding Eligibility: Must be capable of receiving funds from a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organization.
- Service Focus: Must primarily serve individuals and communities in one of the four target countries.
- Commitment to Equity: Should demonstrate dedication to promoting equitable access to education and economic opportunities.
- Primary Focus: Programs should be designed to equip historically marginalized youth and adults with critical skills necessary to thrive in a digital economy.
- Minimum Reach: The organization must currently serve at least 10,000 beneficiaries (direct or indirect). Beneficiaries may include:
- Direct beneficiaries: Individuals with whom the organization interacts directly through programs.
- Indirect beneficiaries: Individuals who benefit indirectly through the skills and knowledge gained by direct participants.
- Program Contact: Must assign a primary contact fluent in English, as all Accelerator program content, mentoring, and communication will be conducted in English.
AI and the Future of Work
With the rapid rise of generative AI, there is growing concern that individuals without strong digital skills may be further marginalized. To address this, the program strongly encourages applications from organizations leveraging AI-driven solutions to promote digital equity and reduce the digital divide.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit applications for the 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator program is February 12, 2025.
