Microsoft has a pretty big mission: To empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. One of the ways we are working to accomplish this mission is through Microsoft Digital Alliances. Microsoft Digital Alliances bring together an array of programs that empower people, promote a better education, inspire youth to imagine opportunities, and help citizens find a job or start their own business.
Yesterday we announced our newest Digital Alliance — with the Community Programs Accelerator at the University of Chicago. This alliance will help the University of Chicago drive economic development and bring new resources to the academic and local community. The goal of the alliance is to support technology education, economic development and entrepreneurship among the University of Chicago and local communities.
“Technology has long been a catalyst for unleashing local economic competitiveness and extending opportunity for all,” said Raamel Mitchel, Central Region citizenship lead at Microsoft. “This Digital Alliance will help the University of Chicago and its nonprofit partners offer new technology programs, educational resources, and skills training to students, educators, small businesses and local residents.”
The alliance will comprise a number of Microsoft initiatives that support technological advancement for students, educators, professionals, local businesses, tech startups and more. One of the initiatives we’re implementing right away is a series of digital literacy workshops — the first of which will take place today to kick off the alliance.
“In today’s classrooms and job market, digital literacy skills are a must, and Microsoft is committed to helping bridge the technological gap in our communities,” said Sherlaender Phillips, Midwest District general manager at Microsoft. “This alliance will help the University of Chicago extend its programs to have an even greater impact with our neighbors.”
“Through the Community Programs Accelerator, the University supports the development and success of nonprofit organizations that serve communities on the South Side of Chicago,” said Derek Douglas, Vice President for Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago. “The Microsoft Digital Alliance adds to the range of resources we are able to provide to our surrounding communities and the University community.”