PRESENTED BY COMPUDOPT
Across the country, more than 14 million households lack access to basic digital tools, such as computers and the internet, creating barriers to everything from education and employment to social services and connection. It’s estimated that up to 23% of Chicago residents are impacted by this gap, otherwise known as the digital divide.
Since opening its Chicago office in May 2020, the national digital opportunity nonprofit Compudopt has provided free devices, technology access and education to underserved youth and their communities to help Chicagoans participate in today’s digital world. Five years later, Compudopt is celebrating its biggest milestone yet: one million individuals impacted by their services across the U.S.
Compudopt was founded in Houston in 2007 on a simple but powerful belief that every student deserves access to technology. Nearly two decades, 80 cities and one million individuals impacted later, that belief has grown into a nationwide mission of holistically bridging the digital divide through no-cost computer access, affordable internet solutions, digital skill building and workforce-aligned technology education.
“As the only national nonprofit providing digital opportunity resources free of cost, we are proud to be celebrating this incredible milestone alongside our community and corporate partners in Chicago,” said Megan Steckly, CEO of Compudopt. “Technology access and education are basic needs. It’s the gateway to education, employment and community engagement, creating economic mobility that helps Chicagoans live lives of choice.”
Strategic partnerships with corporations equally invested in digital solutions and workforce readiness, including AT&T and Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago and others, have amplified Compudopt’s ability to create a more connected Chicago. Through technology donations, program sponsorships and advocacy, local partners have helped bring digital resources and training to thousands of families.
Chicago’s nonprofit communities, as well as city officials, have also played a pivotal role in Compudopt’s impact over the years by helping the organization reach and build trust with more community members.
In 2023, Mayor Brandon Johnson launched Chi Device Donation Month through the Chicago Digital Equity Coalition, and partnered with Compudopt to data-wipe, refurbish and distribute donated computers to Chicago families at no cost.
In 2024, Compudopt Chicago distributed 4,884 computers, connected 318 households to the internet, delivered 24,077 hours of technology training and served 1,057 students, including local sixth to eighth-grade students at its annual Women in Tech event, which exposes girls to career paths in STEAM through hands-on activities and introductions to local women leaders. Participants also received a free laptop as part of the program.
“The Women-in-Tech event was truly a wonderful experience for my girls,” said Alain Locke Charter School teacher Tiffany Harrell. “One student came to school today, ecstatic about working with the groups to create apps. We are so thankful to everyone who made this event possible [and for] … inspiring young girls.”
In 2025, Compudopt continued its partnership with the Chicago Housing Authority for the 15th annual Take Flight College Send-Off, where more than 200 college-bound students received a free laptop and college dorm essentials as they embarked on their journey of higher education.
The Next One Million
Compudopt’s one million milestone is a clear indicator that the nonprofit’s mission is stronger than ever. As the digital landscape evolves, the nonprofit is committed to opening doors for families in the greater Chicago area and beyond. Be part of the next one million at Compudopt.org/Chicago.
Visit Compudopt and Help Bridge the Digital Divide:
Website: https://www.compudopt.org/chicago
Location: 1414 Brook Dr, Downers Grove, IL 60515
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/compudopt/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compudoptchicago
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CompudoptChicago/