Through TechSpark, they work with local community organizations to develop digital skills, support nonprofits and create jobs.

Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Rapid advancement in technology is creating new opportunities in a digital economy, changing how we communicate, learn, work and access healthcare and other essential services. But these opportunities remain out of reach for many in rural communities, small or midsize cities, or underserved areas of larger metropolitan areas.



TechSpark delivers a combination of funding and hands-on mentorship and training. In partnership with a local organization in each state, they supply a grant to support a TechSpark Fellow to spearhead local efforts. This work is hyperlocal and partner-driven. Having someone on the ground from the community, and deeply embedded in the community, is crucial to driving change.

The Microsoft TechSpark Fellowship is a prestigious program designed to foster inclusive economic opportunity, job creation, and innovation across the United States. The program builds on the lessons learned from Microsoft TechSpark and activates these learnings in all 50 states. Communities are selected through a competitive open grant application focused on creating digital inclusion and inclusive economic opportunities[1][2].

TechSpark Fellows receive support from Microsoft in the form of grants, hands-on mentorship, and training. The program empowers fellows to learn about new Microsoft AI resources and bring that knowledge back to their organizations and communities, moving from learning AI to using AI[3][4]. The fellowship also includes opportunities for collaboration, such as the AI Learning Sprint, which helps fellows and ecosystem partners build their own AI learning plans[5].

The fellowship aims to close the digital skills gap, connect communities to broadband, and help local organizations thrive by leveraging technology[1][2]. Since its inception, the program has secured over $125 million in community funding, skilled 55,000 people, and created 3,300 jobs[1].

References

[1] Microsoft TechSpark | Microsoft CSR

[2] About 4 - Coding in Color

[3] Microsoft expands community economic opportunity program nationwide

[4] Re: 📢 Communications Toolkit for TechSpark Fellows 2024 Press Release & AI Learning Sprint

[5] Microsoft TechSpark: Fellows Update