More than 14 million households in the United States do not have access to essential digital tools like computers and internet, a situation that hinders opportunities in education, employment, and access to social services. In Chicago, up to 23% of residents are affected by this lack of access.
Compudopt, a national nonprofit focused on digital opportunity, has been working to address this gap since opening its Chicago office in May 2020. The organization provides free devices, technology access, and educational programs to underserved youth and their communities. This year marks a significant milestone for Compudopt as it reports impacting one million individuals across nearly 80 cities nationwide since its founding in Houston in 2007.
"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 the 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."
Partnerships with corporations such as AT&T and Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago have helped expand Compudopt's reach within the city. Collaboration with local nonprofits and city officials has also been important for building trust within communities.
In 2023, Mayor Brandon Johnson launched Chi Device Donation Month through the Chicago Digital Equity Coalition. The initiative partnered with Compudopt to data-wipe, refurbish, and distribute donated computers at no cost to families.
During 2024, Compudopt distributed nearly 5,000 computers in Chicago alone. The organization connected over 300 households to the internet and delivered more than 24,000 hours of technology training. At its annual Women in Tech event for middle school girls—where participants received hands-on STEAM activities led by local women leaders—students were given free laptops as part of their participation.
"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 partnership with the Chicago Housing Authority during its Take Flight College Send-Off event in 2025—the fifteenth year for this program—more than 200 college-bound students received laptops and dorm essentials as they prepared for higher education.
Compudopt says reaching one million individuals is evidence that its mission continues strongly amid changing digital needs across greater Chicago and beyond.