Technology grants help nonprofits, schools, and educational organizations stay up-to-date on a tight budget. Adopting new technology is expensive, so many organizations just make do with outdated technology. However, frugalness sometimes has consequences. For example, if a school computer lab uses older software and equipment then the training is also outdated.
Grants to use in technology deprived areas may bring schools, community organizations, and social enterprises up to date, so they can train residents in modern technology and scale their operations.Technology grants also empower schools and organizations by funding upgrades and updates to software, equipment, and computers. Technology-oriented businesses frequently sponsor grants.
Eligibility varies by the program, some funders offer technology grants for nonprofits and for-profits and small businesses. Others only fund schools and educational organizations. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements before applying so you don’t waste time applying for the wrong grant.
Resources to Help You Get Funding for Technology
- Cisco Product Grant Program – Cisco’s corporate responsibility program awards networking technology to selected not-for-profit organizations.
- Computers for Learning – This program connects computers donated by the government and private sector to schools and educational nonprofits.
- Computer Recycling Center – Businesses donate their old computers when they upgrade and this organization grants them to schools and qualified not-for-profit organizations.
- Corning Incorporated Foundation – This foundation awards grants in five areas: education, cultural programs, community, health and human services, and disaster relief.
- Digital Wish – Aims to be a one-stop shop for finding technology grants for teachers and schools.
- Donors Choose – Crowdfunding format that allows teachers to fundraise for materials, resources, and experiences for their classrooms. Donors choose which programs they prefer to support.
- Foundation Center – Search for funding bodies and Requests For Proposals (RFP) using their database.
- Fundingfactory – Schools and nonprofits can participate in Fundingfactory’s programs. Their fundraising program involves recycling toner, inkjet printer cartridges, and personal electronic devices.
- Grants.Gov – This is a searchable clearinghouse for government grants in all areas including technology.
- Grant Watch – Grant Watch offers information on a range of grant opportunities for nonprofits, schools, and other educational organizations.
Research and a well-written grant proposal may help you get the technology resources your organization needs. More importantly, it opens up training, efficiency, and scaling options that are more difficult when using outdated technology. Get funding for necessary technology through a business, government, or private technology grant.