The Computers for Communities granting program is a means for us to achieve our goal of universal access to computer technology through partner organizations.

The Granting program helps us distribute computers that other volunteers have made available through our other programs.

Many volunteer hours have been put into our computer reuse (install) and refurbishing (Build) program. These volunteers earn a free computer for every 6 they build. This means that there are other computers available after each program is completed.

The Computer Granting program is open to charity and non-profit organizations, and community outreach programs.

As a partner organization in the granting program, the organization will ensure the computers reach those in need and who face a barrier to accessing technology.

Each computer in our grant

The computers available through this granting program are meant for use by individuals and not necessarily to support the operation of a group or organization.

The one exception to this scenario is if a facility that is publicly accessible wishes to set up a computer lab with internet access available to all patrons.

Each computer in the granting program will include the following hardware at minimum:

• Computer tower/desktop
• Pentium II Processor (at minimum)
• Monitor
• Mouse / Keyboard
• Network card OR dial up modem
• CDROM
• Floppy Drive (if applicable)

Software will include:

• Ubuntu Operating System
• Open Office Suite
• Firefox Web Browser
• Other Open Source Software

To become a partner in our computer granting program please prepare a letter of interest outlining the following:

• How many computers are required?
• Is this for an internet ready community computer lab?
• Do the computers require a modem for dial up internet?
• What other computer donation programs the organization is already participating in
• What support can the organization provide to ensure grants reach target participants (Volunteers, workspace, meeting space)
• What training requirements exist (for staff or recipients)
• Description of how recipients are chosen.
• Proof that the recipients are facing barriers to adopting technology, are disadvantaged, experiencing poverty or the general need.
• Indication as to the mandate of the organization that would include distributing technology to the target groups.

For further details please contact us