TechBridge Asks Area Nonprofits to Share Their Technology Dreams

Atlanta - January 6, 2010. In today's tough economic climate, how can a cash-strapped nonprofit accomplish a comprehensive technology makeover? The answer could be simple - just ask. TechBridge, a nonprofit that provides professional, affordable technology services to other nonprofits, is pleased to announce it is accepting applications for the 2010 Technology Innovation Award.

The award, given by Accenture, is presented to a Georgia nonprofit with an unfulfilled technology vision. The 2010 winner will receive over $55,500 in TechBridge services, Microsoft software and cash to implement their dream technology project. Additionally, two finalists will each receive awards valued in excess of $11,500 in TechBridge services, Microsoft software and cash.

For the ninth consecutive year Accenture is underwriting TechBridge's consulting services and cash grants included in the Technology Innovation Award. Microsoft will provide the software through TechBridge's affiliation with the NPower Network.

"We know that creativity and ingenuity run deep in the nonprofit community", said TechBridge CEO, Kathleen Kurre. "However, resources are more limited than ever before so it is especially exciting to help a deserving nonprofit increase its capacity to serve our community through technology. The outcome will be inspirational."

Examples of potentially award-winning project ideas may include:

• Improving web presence and functionality to more effectively interact with volunteers, donors and other stakeholders;
• Using technology to automate repetitive, time-consuming processes and share information more efficiently; or
• Stabilizing and modernizing technology infrastructure, including hardware and software upgrades, off-site hosting and remote access.

"Technology has the power to transform society for the better," said Craig Ramsey, Atlanta Managing Director, Accenture. "Accenture is pleased to once again sponsor this unique award that enables an innovative nonprofit realize its technology vision and increase its impact in our community."

In addition to the proceeds mentioned above, the award winner and finalists will participate in valuable PR opportunities including the presentation of the Technology Innovation Award during TechBridge's prestigious Digital Ball, which will host over 800 of Atlanta's most influential technology and business leaders. Award recipients will also be profiled in event marketing materials.

The 2009 Award winner, Tommy Nobis Center, is currently on the way to realizing its technology dream of world-class automated client intake and file management processes. The technology dream-project made possible by the award is leveraging donated software from Force.com and Microsoft along with $25,000 in TechBridge consulting hours and over 1,000 hours of volunteer time from skilled IT professionals from Accenture, Beazer Homes, Bluewolf, CTS and other TechBridge corporate partners.