About the Microsoft Technology Grant
The Microsoft Technology Grant is a Special Project through the Wyoming Community Foundation (WYCF). This grant is open to organizations and projects in Laramie County that focus on technology specifically, helping recipients obtain hardware, software, and STEM skills to help bridge the digital divide often experienced in rural areas like Wyoming.
Benefits to Nonprofits in Laramie County
“Technology grants like this one are extremely important to nonprofits,” said Lindsey Reynolds, Executive Director of the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra. “Budget shortfalls often result in staff using outdated and underperforming technology for far too long.”
Upgrading outdated tech allows these grantees to more efficiently work towards their mission.
Importance of Community Partnerships
“Partnerships like this help bridge the gap for much needed funding for small nonprofits while also bringing new ideas and expertise to our programs,” said Kathleen Gillgannon, Executive Director of ASK (Afterschool for Kids). “These relationships demonstrate a shared commitment to strengthening our community.”
This relationship with Microsoft and WYCF helped nonprofits in Laramie County gain access to technology, resources, and opportunities that can be hard to come by for small organizations with limited resources.
These types of programs provide a bit of a safety net for Wyoming nonprofits. We are seeing a historically difficult time for groups to raise funds to help their neighbors.
HealthWorks
HealthWorks is a health center providing care to everyone, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. With this grant, they were able to purchase new computers for each exam room, provider offices, and staff work areas that can be accessed with badges. This eliminates the need for laptops that need replacing more frequently due to constant moving around.
Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra
Agency Fundholder at WYCF
Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is a professional orchestra serving the city of Cheyenne and southeast Wyoming. The funds from this grant allowed CSO to purchase three new Microsoft Surface laptops, improving efficiency when serving customers at the box office, avoiding long lines at the door, and ensuring concerts started on time.
ASK (Afterschool for Kids)
ASK provides safe and effective programming for kids outside of school, inspiring and empowering youth, supporting families, and strengthening the community. With a grant from Microsoft, they were able to add stop-motion filmmaking into their program. Participants used technology to develop stories, build creativity, collaborate, and solve problems, making technology an engaging part of the learning experience.
The Microsoft Technology Grant - Winter Cycle is Open
Applications are due December 15
