REDMOND, Wash., May 7, 1997 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that, in cooperation with Compaq Computer Corp., it raised more than $100,000 for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) at the first Equal Access fundraiser, held at spring NetWorld+Interop (N+I). Equal Access is a charitable outreach program of Microsoft, created to help fulfill the company’s vision of providing access to the Internet and PC technology for everyone.
The launch of Equal Access, co-sponsored by Microsoft and Compaq, featured a performance by Cirque Du Soleil. All proceeds from ticket sales were donated to the UNCF to help historically black colleges expand student access to computing and the Internet and improve computer science curricula, ultimately helping to enhance diversity in the high-tech workplace.
“It’s extremely important for the high-tech industry and the nation to support and encourage everyone to learn to use computers and the Internet,” said Jim Allchin, senior vice president, personal and business systems group at Microsoft Corp. “To remain competitive in our emerging high-tech world, we must support education by providing funding for programs such as the United Negro College Fund. Equal Access gives Microsoft the chance to work with its colleagues to help level the high-tech playing field.”
“Microsoft, which has long been a generous supporter of UNCF, is again demonstrating leadership in the computer industry by founding Equal Access,” said William H. Gray III, president and CEO of UNCF. “By providing funding to enhance technology at historically black
colleges, Microsoft, Compaq and the rest of the industry are helping to solve a critical issue for our nation: access to technology for all.”
The Equal Access donation adds to Microsoft’s ongoing support for UNCF. Over the past two years, Microsoft has donated more than $16 million in software, technical assistance, training and scholarships to benefit UNCF, its member colleges and students.
Microsoft plans to hold Equal Access events at both N+I shows each year. Microsoft will co-sponsor each Equal Access event with other high-tech companies, with the goal of encouraging the high-tech industry to continue its philanthropic efforts. All proceeds will go to nonprofit organizations that promote learning and growth through the use of technology.
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