Community Engagement & Investment

Microsoft Unlimited Potential–Community Technology Skills Program

Microsoft believes that by working with partners to create relevant training opportunities and innovative tools for people who are underserved by technology, we can help foster social and economic opportunities that change people's lives and transform communities. The Microsoft Unlimited Potential–Community Technology Skills Program is a global effort that promotes workforce development and IT skills training programs in underserved communities. Microsoft provides cash grants, software, and specialized curriculum to nonprofit community technology centers (CTCs) around the world.

The Community Technology Skills Program provides support for technology skills training, ranging from basic computer literacy to the use of advanced business productivity applications. This training helps individuals learn about technology and gain the skills they need for employment in today's workforce. Microsoft supports these opportunities through donations of cash, software, curriculum, and technical expertise, with a focus on nonprofit CTCs that make IT skills training a priority, enable community members to share the learning experience, and are open and accessible to the public.

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Microsoft Unlimited Potential–Community Technology Skills Program Recipients

Since the Community Technology Skills Program began in 2003, Microsoft has provided more than US$315 million in cash and software grants to more than 1,000 community partners. These donations support 37,000 CTCs in more than 100 countries/regions. Read descriptions of the 2008 recipients:

• Asia and Pacific
• Europe
• Middle East and Africa
• Latin America
• United States and Canada

Community Technology Centers

CTCs are found in locations that range from remote villages to major metropolitan areas. They provide free or low-cost access for people of all ages and abilities to learn about computers, use the Internet, explore new careers, further their education, participate in community activities, and develop job-related technology skills. Each CTC features reliable and well-maintained computer equipment, peripherals, and connectivity.

CTCs offer an informal, welcoming environment in community centers, schools, libraries, housing facilities, or other convenient locations. They have strong leadership or a local champion and employ friendly, knowledgeable staff members or volunteers. CTCs also are expected to demonstrate a clear mission or a focus on delivering social benefits, and each center's curriculum is driven by local demand.

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Unlimited Potential Community Learning Curriculum

The Community Learning Curriculum provides a foundation for teaching basic to intermediate technical skills. Specifically designed for CTCs and telecenters, the content is designed to help people develop skills that apply to real-world challenges and opportunities. Available in 21 languages, the curriculum is provided free of charge for noncommercial use in nonprofit CTCs and telecenters worldwide.

• Download the Unlimited Potential Community Learning Curriculum

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Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum

CTCs can also use the Digital Literacy Curriculum, which teaches basic computer concepts and skills. Available in several languages, these e-learning courses and assessments help people learn to use the Internet, send e-mail, create a résumé, and much more.

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telecentre.org

Telecentre.org is a collaborative initiative designed to connect telecenters, networks, innovators, social investors, and other interested parties who believe that information and communications technology, when used locally, can strengthen individuals and the communities in which they live.

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Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Microsoft has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America since 2000 to help children and young adults improve their technology skills. Through Club Tech, technology is being integrated into the program structure of more than 2,700 Boys & Girls Clubs in the United States.

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