Compudopt: Free Computers & Tech Training for Families

Compudopt helps families who don't have computers or internet skills get the technology they need to succeed. The organization gives away free refurbished computers to families without home devices. They also teach digital skills like basic computer use, internet safety, and common programs. Compudopt runs coding bootcamps and tech internship programs to help youth and adults get good-paying jobs. They help families connect to reliable internet service too. The digital divide means millions of families can't fully participate in today's digital world because they lack devices or don't know how to use technology. This affects their ability to succeed in school, find jobs, and participate in their communities. Compudopt removes these barriers by providing both the hardware and training people need. Their programs operate in over 15 cities across the United States, including Houston and Dallas. By giving families technology access and skills, Compudopt helps create more equity in education and employment opportunities, especially for under-resourced communities.

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FamiliesEducation Tech Company Allelo Makes Top 200 in Big ContestAllelo, an education technology company from Pittsburgh, was chosen as one of 200 finalists in a major startup contest called the GSV Cup. This contest is the world's biggest competition for education technology companies, with over $1 million in prizes. Allelo beat out more than 750 other companies from around the world to make it to this level. The company creates tools that help students have better online discussions and conversations in their classes. Teachers can use Allelo's artificial intelligence features to see how well students participate and stay on topic during online discussions. The company was started by engineering students from Carnegie Mellon University. Now they will compete at a big education conference in San Diego for the chance to win cash prizes and investment money. The contest shows how technology is changing education, especially after the pandemic made online learning more important. More than half of the winning companies have female founders, and many are led by people of color, showing growing diversity in the tech industry.