Comp-U-Dopt
At Comp-U-Dopt, our mission is to provide technology access and education to youth and their communities.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| investor | €0.0 | round | |
| investor | €0.0 | round | |
| investor | €0.0 | round | |
N/A | Grant | ||
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
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Comp-U-Dopt is a national non-profit organization operating with a clear and focused mission: to provide technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities. Founded in 2007 by Jonathan Osha, the organization was born from the realization that corporate computers are typically replaced every three years, presenting an opportunity to refurbish these devices for young learners. This model also promotes environmental stewardship by diverting electronic waste from landfills.
The organization's core function is a direct response to the digital divide, where a significant percentage of low-income families lack a computer at home. Comp-U-Dopt's operational model centers on collecting used computers from corporate partners, which are then refurbished, loaded with open-source software like Ubuntu, and distributed for free to qualifying students and families. To receive a computer, families typically register for a lottery system, and if selected, pick up the device at a drive-thru distribution event. This process proved particularly vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the need for at-home learning tools.
Beyond hardware provision, Comp-U-Dopt has expanded its services to include a robust educational framework designed to foster digital literacy and workforce readiness. It offers a continuum of free, hands-on technology programs tailored to different age groups, from first graders to adults. Programs like "Early Adopters" for elementary students delve into robotics and virtual reality, while the "Learn2Earn" program equips high school students with skills in coding and computer hardware, often rewarding successful completion with a free laptop. For young adults and adults, programs focus on digital skills applicable to the modern workforce. The organization's funding relies on corporate and community partnerships, donations, and the work of volunteers.
Keywords: digital equity, technology access, non-profit, computer refurbishment, digital literacy, youth education, STEM training, e-waste recycling, community support, workforce development, computer donation, technology education, underserved youth, digital divide, after-school programs, free computers, corporate partnerships, technology for families, coding for kids, digital inclusion