The Teens and Tech program grant supports organizations that encourage teens to learn, experiment and collaborate with the latest technologies, developing skills and experiences to help them succeed in their careers, contribute to their communities and lead outstanding lives.
Donor Name: Best Buy Foundation
State: Minnesota
Counties: Anoka County (MN), Carver County (MN), Dakota County (MN), Hennepin County (MN), Ramsey County (MN), Scott County (MN), Washington County (MN)
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline (mm/dd/yyyy): 04/01/2022
Size of the Grant: $5,000 to $50,000
Grant Duration: 1 year
Details:
Programs should help teens build tech skills by utilizing cutting-edge technology such as computers, digital cameras, video cameras, and professional software in a wide range of areas including, but not limited to:
- Audio production (including music mixing & recording)
- Website development
- Computer maintenance and repair
- UX/UI (user experience/user interface)
- Digital arts, such as graphic design and photography
- Cybersecurity
- Mobile & game app development
- 3D Animation
- Programing & coding
- Virtual Reality/ Augmented Reality
- Robotics
- Green technology
The primary responsibilities of the nonprofit organization include:
- Providing staff and curriculum for the out-of-school time programming.
- Where the opportunity exists, working with schools and other community-based organizations to build awareness of the program to drive teen participation.
- Demonstrating engagement of youth from disinvested communities.
- Developing financial and community support to help sustain the program beyond the grant funding from Best Buy Foundation. Best Buy Foundation will not fund a program as the only supporter, additional funders or support are required.
- When possible, enabling participation of Best Buy employees to serve as volunteers.
- Completing an online impact report for program evaluation purposes. Components include program length, progress made towards goals, number of program participants and demographics, Best Buy volunteer engagement, community collaboration, technology, and work-life skills gained, organizational change, and teen engagement.
Funding Information
- Program grants (no general operating) typically range from $5,000 to $50,000.
- The median award for Teens and Tech is $25,000.
Grant Period
Up to one year of funding. Organizations demonstrating success are eligible to apply for future funding in subsequent years.
Eligibility Criteria
The Best Buy Foundation invites out-of-school time programs that have a fundamental commitment to youth ages 13-18 from disinvested communities to apply for funding. Minimum eligibility criteria include:
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with a proven track record of serving youth ages 13-18 from disinvested communities.
- Programming occurs outside of school time.
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Programming must be within the Twin Cities seven-county metro area.
For more information, visit Teens and Tech Program Grant.
