A new initiative spearheaded by CMF members, businesses and nonprofits is aimed at bridging Detroit’s digital divide before the new school year begins.

The Tech Fund for Detroit Students launched last week with the goal of providing computers and internet access to Detroit charter and private high school students who are considered high need. This collaborative effort was made possible by CMF members DTE Energy Foundation, The Skillman Foundation and Quicken Loans Community Fund and other organizations including the Deloitte Foundation, Detroit Children’s Fund, Nancy and Arn Tellem, the Detroit Pistons, Harlem Children’s Zone, Ideal Group and the United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM).

“We’re thrilled that so many Detroit institutions have come together to ensure more students can engage in remote learning and progress in their education,” Punita Dani Thurman, vice president of program and strategy for The Skillman Foundation said. “High schoolers and recent graduates are the focus of this fund because they will have the least amount of time to catch up if they fall behind in their studies.”

The $1.8 million fund will allow high school administrators to apply for funding to provide students with laptops and internet access to support remote learning. Schools who have already purchased devices for students since March can also apply for reimbursement funds.

As CMF reported nearly 500,000 Michigan students do not have access to adequate technology or internet access for remote learning. CMF members, organizations, cities and school districts across the state continue to leverage partnerships and innovative approaches to support students and their families in the remote learning environment.

“The Tech Fund addresses an urgent need affecting the most vulnerable families in Detroit,” Tonya Adair, chief impact officer for UWSEM said. “Education, employment, and stability are all tied to having access to technology. It will take the collective power of public and private collaborators, like The Skillman Foundation and Detroit Children’s Fund, to address the digital divide for students and families. We are especially grateful for the support of all organizations involved in making this fund a reality.”

The goal of the Tech Fund and other initiatives, including Connected Futures which is a joint effort among several CMF members to provide computer tablets and high-speed internet access to all students in the Detroit Public Schools Community District, and Connect 313 is to make Detroit the most connected city in the country during the pandemic and beyond.

“Digital literacy and access isn’t only imperative now during this pandemic,” Thurman said. “It is imperative for young people’s ongoing education, connection to community and access to the job market.”

Want more?

Learn about the Tech Fund for Detroit Students.

Learn about Connected Futures and other efforts to bridge Michigan’s digital divide.