Microsoft invests in local programs that benefit people of all ages. In Wisconsin, our collaborations are organized by our focus areas of Skills for Jobs, Enabling Sustainability, and Empowering Communities.
The following program list contains a sample of the investments Microsoft makes on an annual basis.
Skills for jobs
Microsoft believes everyone should have access to the skills, technology, and opportunity they need to succeed in a changing economy.
Gateway Technical College Foundation supports the mission of the College by mobilizing individuals and organizations to invest in students through financial support and engagement. It strengthens the diverse communities it serves by aligning resources with student needs.
- Datacenter Academy Scholarship program provides financial support for those students who come from underrepresented backgrounds, by removing barriers and promoting a diverse workforce. The award will provide Gateway students in Hardware Infrastructure, Networking Techniques, Cyber Security, and Critical Environment programs with direct education aid such as tuition, fees, books, supplies, and certificate fees. It will also support two Gateway faculty in becoming trained as trainers in CompTIA certification areas.
Human Services | Racine County, WI assists thousands of families each year to help improve their lives and the lives of their families and loved ones.
- Summer Youth Employment Program in Racine County uplifts local youth aged 15–18 through paid summer employment. This program not only provides soft skills and financial literacy through valuable work experience but also helps reduce involvement in the juvenile justice system, increase high school graduation rates, and boost future earning potential. The county is also working with local higher education institutions to expose more youth to the college experience. By partnering with various local partners, such as Gateway’s IMET and UW Parkside, it offers a robust platform for youth to gain practical skills, mentorship, and a solid foundation for their future careers and personal development.
Enabling sustainability
Climate change requires swift, collective action and technological innovation. We are committed to meeting our own goals while helping communities to do the same.
Root-Pike Watershed Initiative Network (Root-Pike WIN) works to restore, protect, and sustain the Root-Pike basin watersheds through the funding and facilitation of a regional network of locally initiated projects.
- Ten key watershed restoration projects in Racine and Kenosha counties, including projects in Mt. Pleasant village, are being supported through Microsoft funding. Root-Pike WIN will utilize funds to further advance the development and completion of current and pending projects including consultancy related to restoration of Lamparek Creek and other projects. Funding will allow Root-Pike WIN to provide project development services, promote water quality advocacy, support grant writing, and enable expanded fundraising activity.
Empowering communities
Microsoft is committed to strengthening communities and empowering the organizations that help them thrive. Whether affected by a recent emergency or decades of challenges, we use data, technology, and strategic investments to restore and support them for future generations.
United Way of Racine County is mobilizing the caring power of Racine County to improve lives and transform our community.
- Digital Skills and Community Support is community enablement funding to support targeted community focus areas such as STEM Education and Digital Literacy programs for Racine County residents; return-to-work and upskilling for adults (such as collaboration support of the local Gener8tor programming); and support of local nonprofit organizations, schools, and underserved groups in Racine County.