Citizens Online was established to explore the social and cultural impact of the Internet on society. Citizens Online believe that access to the Internet is essential for every citizen in the 21^st Century. In partnership with Microsoft, Citizens Online aim to tackle the issue of Digital Exclusion so that everyone can experience the benefits of the Internet.

“Citizens Online is delighted to be continuing our partnership with Microsoft. Partnership working is key to understanding cross-sector needs and developing successful strategies for overcoming digital exclusion. We have been working with Microsoft to develop several significant initiatives aimed at getting ICT skills and resources into communities and are set to continue this vital work together through 2006.”
John Fisher
Chief Executive
Citizens Online

Microsoft Community Learning Awards
Microsoft and Citizens Online have initiated an annual award scheme which aims to support UK community groups and charities in helping disadvantaged people learn about information technology by providing them with funding, software donations and IT training curriculum materials.
The awards scheme provides grass-roots support to community run and community based IT skills projects across the UK. It is developed jointly with Citizens Online to provide national reach, at a local scale, in support of the Unlimited Potential programme.
In 2004, 25 community groups were awarded £2,000 plus Microsoft software. In 2005, 30 community groups from across the UK received £2,500 plus Microsoft software.

Everybody Online
Microsoft works in association with Citizens Online and BT, to provide the Everybody Online programme. This was launched to provide small communities, schools, or older people’s homes with funding and support to help people benefit from the Internet and to further develop their IT skills.