To support digital equity solution development, a joint initiative between HP Inc. and the HP Foundation has opened applications for The Digital Equity Accelerator, which exclusively targets local nonprofits and NGOs working in Canada, Brazil and Poland.

The program, now in its third year, offers 10 selected nonprofit organizations a $100,000 USD grant, HP technology ($100,000 USD, approximate value), and six months of virtual training to scale digital equity solutions focused on educational, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Running from April until October 2024, the conclusion of the program allows Accelerator participants to showcase their work and impact before an audience of potential collaborators, investors, and other interested stakeholders.

Frances Edmonds, Head of Sustainable Impact, HP Canada, explained, “Nonprofit organizations deliver essential on-the-ground support to those who are historically excluded, removing barriers so people can equitably participate and thrive in a digital society. Finite resources including time, staff, and financial support can challenge their efforts to close the gap in a dynamic digital landscape.”

“… The Digital Equity Accelerator helps selected nonprofit organizations scale innovative approaches to equitable digital inclusion among people that are traditionally excluded.” As well as funding, Edmonds also explained how the program provides, “… a six-month virtual program, including training, mentorship, and technical consultations, designed to help strengthen capacity and scale digital impact.”

“Organizations can expect representatives to engage in the program for about 10-12 hours per week during the program period, including participating in virtual workshops, technical training, mentoring, counselling, and reporting,” shared Edmonds. “There are additional opportunities throughout the program year to connect and share information with other Accelerator participants, and access a broader network of support, and participate in activities to increase the visibility of your work and organization. As with any program, the more you engage in the opportunities that are made available, the more value your organization will get from the program.”

Call for Canadian Applicants

“HP Canada is excited to invite Canadian non-profit organizations (excluding the Province of Quebec) to apply until March 1, 2024, and provide solutions that accelerate the valuable work of these local nonprofits to allow them to thrive,” stated Edmonds.

“Canada is one of three strategically selected countries for this year’s program, representing diverse challenges in digital equity, which aligns with HP’s commitment to fostering inclusive access globally,” remarked Edmonds. “Despite high internet usage, Canada has persistent inequalities among Indigenous and rural communities and other marginalized groups, with targeted efforts to bridge connectivity gaps.^”

“This year, we particularly encourage applications from/for First Nations communities, refugee and immigrant communities, rural populations, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities who are committed to advancing more inclusive and equitable access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities,” remarked Edmonds.

Edmonds added, “As we steer our focus on benefiting people that face the biggest digital divide, we are looking to partner with organizations who support women and girls, people with disabilities and aging populations, historically disconnected and marginalized groups, and/or educators and healthcare practitioners.”

Shared Edmonds, “For more information including qualification guidelines, Canadians can watch this video and visit the Digital Equity Accelerator website.”

Edmonds also offered, “ Nonprofits who are interested in applying can read [alumni] stories in the 2023 report.”

HP’s journey to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030

“As nearly half of the world’s population remains offline, closing the digital divide through equitable access to technology, skills and content will transform lives and communities and create a more equitable world,” said Edmonds.

“Since the beginning of 2021, HP has been on a journey to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030,” added Edmonds. “HP’s vision is to become the world’s most sustainable and just technology company, which is reflected in its focus areas of climate action, human rights and digital equity.”

Stated Edmonds, “For more than 80 years, HP has prided itself on being a purpose-driven company that through the technology we create and the values we uphold, contributes to a better future.”

“How we do things is just as important as what we do. This mindset has allowed us to grow into an industry leader when it comes to sustainability,” offered Edmonds. “As Canada’s most sustainable technology company, and listed as one of the top 100 most sustainable corporations by Canada’s Corporate Knights it is our belief that it is not enough to do less harm, we must do more good. While we’ve made progress, we still have significant work to do across our core focus areas.”

“It’s imperative,” added Edmonds, “that as we tackle these challenges, we continue to examine our progress and evaluate what further actions are needed to achieve a more equitable and sustainable future.”

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