The Trust for the Americas Selected as Microsoft TechSpark Fellow to Drive Economic Growth in Puerto Rico
Washington, D.C. – November 25, 2024 – The Trust for the Americas (The Trust), a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Organization of American States (OAS), proudly announces its selection for the second consecutive year as a Microsoft TechSpark Community Engagement Fellow. This renewed collaboration underscores The Trust’s ongoing commitment to bridging social and economic gaps in Puerto Rico.
The Trust, with support from Microsoft and in collaboration with the Centro para Puerto Rico, will expand its efforts to provide inclusive digital skills training and promote entrepreneurship across Puerto Rico. This initiative aims to drive economic growth and strengthen community resilience by equipping individuals with essential technological and entrepreneurial skills.
“Microsoft’s TechSpark program works closely with local community organizations to develop digital skills, support nonprofits and create jobs…” said Mike Egan, Senior Director, Microsoft TechSpark, “working with organizations like the Trust for the Americas will help realize the potential of technology and foster greater economic opportunity in Puerto Rico.”
“We are thrilled to continue our work together with Microsoft as a TechSpark Fellow, and Centro para Puerto Rico. This renewed collaboration strengthens our efforts to equip Puerto Rico’s communities with the digital skills and entrepreneurial tools they need to thrive. By empowering individuals, particularly women, we’re not just fostering economic growth – we’re creating lasting change and opportunity for generations to come.” said Veronica Philippe, Project Manager at The Trust for the Americas and TechSpark Fellow for Puerto Rico.
Last year, The Trust and Centro para Puerto Rico made significant strides in Puerto Rico, directly impacting over 1,000 individuals—87% of whom were women—through digital transformation and entrepreneurship programs. This work is already driving meaningful change in communities like Loíza and is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable economic future.
The Microsoft TechSpark program supports nonprofits across the country working to expand economic opportunities in their communities . In its inaugural year, TechSpark Fellows secured over $177 million in funding, reached 48,000 community members, and collaborated with 548 organizations to drive localized economic growth.
To learn more about Microsoft TechSpark and its impact, visit TechSpark.
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About The Trust for the Americas:
The Trust for the Americas, established in 1997, is a non-profit organization that promotes social and economic inclusion by equipping individuals with critical skills to thrive in the evolving world of work. Through initiatives in employability, entrepreneurship, and innovation, The Trust has empowered communities across the Americas for over two decades.
As an affiliate of the Organization of American States, The Trust collaborates with public, private, academic, and civil society collaborations to drive meaningful impact at both regional and local levels.
More information: www.thetrustfortheamericas.org
Press contact:
Carlos Escalante, Communications Manager
+1 202 370 9865
About Centro para Puerto Rico of the Sila M. Foundation:
Centro para Puerto Rico is a nonprofit organization under the Sila M. Foundation, dedicated to empowering communities across Puerto Rico through social and economic development initiatives. Since its inception, Centro para Puerto Rico has focused on addressing critical needs in education, health, and economic sustainability, with a particular emphasis on uplifting marginalized populations. Through strategic collaborations with local organizations, Centro para Puerto Rico strives to foster community resilience, enhance opportunities for growth, and advance sustainable development.
