Tech firms get into the Christmas spirit

12-12-2007

by Ciara O'Brien

Tech firms Microsoft, Cisco and Symantec are spreading a hefty dose of Christmas spirit through a new technology donation programme.

The three companies are set to donate up to EUR25 million through the ENCLUDEit project, which will benefit non-profit organisations by giving them access to technology donations. The initiative is part of an attempt to bridge the digital divide between non-profits and Irish businesses.

Up to 5,000 non-profit organisations are set to benefit from the programme, receiving technology with a total value of up to EUR25 million. The donated technology will include products from the three main sponsors.

Speaking at the launch of the programme, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs Martin Cullen welcomed the ENCLUDEit project and said it would help the non-profits develop their services.

"Technology is an enabler which will help organisations to achieve things for themselves and their clients which they would not otherwise be able to do," he said. "Cost can act as a barrier to technology for organisations operating in the community and voluntary sector."

The minister also presented the first IT donation, with children's cancer charity Barretstown Gang Camp first on the list. The charity will use the technology to help support a new system to improve communications with 110 partner hospitals around Europe and the families involved in the charity.

The project is being run by ENCLUDEit in partnership with US-based TechSoup, a non-profit technology assistance agency.

"Having access to standard technology is vital for every non-profit organisation in order to offer their services at the high standard people deserve. However, budgets are often under too much pressure to allow the necessary investment in ICT," said Eamon Stack, co-founder of ENCLUDEit.

"ENCLUDEit will give these organisations access to critical technology to more efficiently deliver services to the most needy and better use donor funds. The technology donations also open the door to delivery of new and innovative services with better communication and participation with those who benefit from their service."