Windows Chip-In launched on June 4th as a crowdsourcing program to help students and parents purchase a new Windows PC or Tablet for school. Today, we are bringing this program one step further by introducing a Buy One, Give One program.
For the next 100 students who fulfill his or her PC funding amount before September 1st, Windows and Microsoft Citizenship will give away one PC to Year Up, an organization dedicated to empowering urban talent and a Microsoft YouthSpark nonprofit partner. In short, when you buy one, we will give one.
When students visit the Windows Chip-In website, they can sign-up with a valid .edu email address and pick the PC they would like to crowdsource. The website then creates a page for the student to share with their family and friends via social media or other means such as email. To begin the effort, Windows “chips in” the first 10% of the cost of the PC, and even includes a 4-year subscription to Office 365 University. Windows also waives shipping, handling, and tax.
A recent survey conducted by Lab 42 found that 94% of students see a having a computer as a necessity for success. Through this program students who complete the purchase of a PC through Windows Chip-In can join Microsoft in helping other students to be successful too!
“We are thrilled to partner with Microsoft Windows on the Chip In, Buy One, Give One Campaign,” said Year Up Chicago Executive Director, Alan Anderson. “Having current technology is necessary for college and professional success and this crowdfunding program is a fantastic way to empower young adults to make a difference in closing the Opportunity Divide.”
Year Up is a one-year, intensive training program that provides low-income youth, ages 18-24, with a combination of skill development, college credits, and access to corporate internships. Year Up’s vision is to have every urban young adult be able to access the education, experiences, and guidance required to realize his or her true potential. Year Up has a model of high support and high expectation that aids in their youth acquiring job skills, stipends, internships, and college credits.