How will the foundation determine whether an organization is effective at providing free access to computers and the Internet?
A program is considered an effective provider of free technology services when it offers tools, training, and guidance that directly benefit individuals and their communities. Examples of this can include helping farmers use technology to learn about crop prices and improved practices, teaching job seekers how to increase their technology skills and find employment over the Internet, and showing students how to use web-based resources in their coursework. In addition to providing anecdotal evidence of these types of successes, the foundation encourages applicants to demonstrate measured impacts on individuals through quantitative data if possible.
