HP Inc has stated that its 2025 Digital Equity Accelerator programme is aimed at equipping historically disconnected youth and adults with the critical skills needed to participate and thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
In a statement issued to PUNCH Online on Tuesday, the Global Head of Social Impact, HP Inc., and Director of HP Foundation, Michele Malejki, said through the digital equity accelerator, HP aims to create a more equitable world through access to technology, digital literacy & AI, and quality skills content.
“At HP, we believe in harnessing technology to drive positive, lasting change, and we are dedicated to closing the digital divide for youth and adults who have been historically disconnected from digital access so they can succeed in an increasingly competitive digital economy,”
“As we enter our fourth year of the Digital Equity Accelerator, we are inspired by the progress made so far and are excited to see the innovative, AI-powered solutions that the 2025 cohort will bring forward to address digital equity challenges,” she said.
She bemoaned that a $1 trillion-plus digital divide is limiting billions from achieving equal access to educational and economic opportunities, pointing out the need to equip youths and adults for the digital economy.
According to her, the Accelerator helps organisations strengthen capacity and scale impact for digital equity solutions, particularly among people who are traditionally excluded
“The Accelerator will support nonprofits in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain to bridge the digital divide
“Selected nonprofit organizations will receive $100,000 in HP Foundation grants, HP technology $100,000 value), and six months of programmatic support to scale digital equity solutions.
“For the first time, HP is offering the Accelerator program to four countries to further expand geographic reach.
For the 2025 programme, nonprofits in Greece, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Spain, including those using AI to advance impact, are invited to apply. HP will accept applications until 11:59 p.m. EST on February 12, 2025,” she said.
She added that according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs (2023), the skilled workforce is still diminishing, leaving employers without access to the talent needed to fill needed jobs.
By 2030, the global economy could face a shortage of over 85 million skilled workers, potentially leading to an $8.5 trillion shortfall in annual revenues if not addressed.
According to a recent report, investing in AI-skilling for women and girls can unlock a staggering $212 billion for the global economy. [5]
HP’s Commitment to Digital Equity and Sustainable Impact
Since 2021, HP has been on a journey to accelerate digital equity for 150 million people by 2030, having reached 45 million people through 2023.
This year’s evolving focus on equipping youth and adults with critical skills reflects HP’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting economic inclusion.
The Digital Equity Accelerator remains a cornerstone of this effort, investing in nonprofits to scale innovative solutions and create a more connected and inclusive world.