For half a century, Best Buy has been a catalyst for the rise of technology as a means to improve virtually every aspect of our lives.
Technology know-how is crucial for young people preparing to enter the job market for the first time. Nearly 80% of jobs over the next decade will require tech skills. We are committed to giving underserved teens hands-on access to the tech education and tools they need to be prepared for the tech-reliant jobs of the future.
We open the door to opportunity with technology training and tools that transform underserved teens from consumers to creator – a new generation of engineers, entrepreneurs, teachers, designers and dreamers.
Community Grant Partner Overview
As a means to prepare underserved teens for the tech-reliant jobs of the future, the Best Buy Foundation seeks local and regional nonprofit partners offering out-of-school time programs that create hands-on access to technology education and tools that teens will need to be successful in their future schooling and careers. Programs should include hands-on learning opportunities and engage the youth in experimenting, and interacting with the latest technologies to build 21st century skills.
Our goal is to provide underserved teens with access to innovative technologies and help them become interested and fluent in digital learning while developing skills to help better prepare them for future education and career success.
Grant Overview
The Best Buy Foundation is searching for local organizations with a demonstrated track record for building skill proficiency in technology through out-of-school time programs.
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)
Coding or programming
Computer maintenance and repair
Digital photography &graphic design
Filmmaking & videography
Maker Faires/hack-a-thons
Mobile & game app development
Virtual Reality
Robotics
Web site design
3D Printing
The primary responsibilities of the nonprofit organization include:Providing staff and curriculum for the out-of-school time programming. May include volunteer instructors. Must not rely on program development or staffing provided by Best Buy employees or associated companies.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 underserved 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.Submitting a report on program components such as participant demographics, program activities, desired outcomes, challenges, successes, and participant survey results.When possible, enabling participation of Best Buy employees to serve as volunteers.
Community Grants are designed to support local efforts and are reviewed for consideration by Best Buy teams across the United States. The average grant amount is $5,000 and will not exceed $10,000.
Eligibility Criteria
Best Buy invites out-of-school time programs that have a fundamental commitment to youth, ages 13-18, to apply for funding. Minimum eligibility criteria include: Eligible nonprofits may be a public or nonprofit community-based organization (e.g., community center, school or library) with existing local or regional out-of-school time program and a proven track record of serving youth ages 13-18.
Program located within a nonprofit organization targeting teens in under-resourced communities.
Program must operate within 25 miles of a Best Buy store or other Best Buy center of operations (e.g., warehouse, corporate headquarters, Geek Squad Service Center, etc.) to allow for Best Buy employee volunteer participation (if appropriate).
Commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Previous grantees must submit a progress report before applying for subsequent funding.
To determine eligibility, applicants must complete eligibility quiz online (available on website - click on Link to More Info, below).
» Link to More Info
For Grantwriting/Program Development Assistance:
Grants Office
Phone: (585) 352-2773
Email: [email protected]