Sharing the Foundation’s 2020 Impact Report
We cannot reflect on 2020 without focusing on the immense struggles and challenges that emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic—which amplified the systemic barriers that have long prevented equal access to the quality education, training and job opportunities required to achieve economic mobility and stability. As we move forward with recovery efforts, we believe the technology sector can and must play a powerful role in unlocking greater opportunity for individuals of all backgrounds.
Since our founding in 2018, the Cognizant U.S. Foundation has served underrepresented, underserved and un(der)employed communities—and the events that unfolded in 2020 elevated the importance of this focus. We were well-positioned to respond to the increased and evolved needs of those we serve through grantmaking in three critical areas: pathways, pipelines and systems change.
Pathways: every individual interested in a career in technology will be able to see a clear pathway to success in the field, no matter their background
Pipelines: more people of all ages will not only aspire to pursue careers in technology, but also have the foundational skills they need to grow into the field
Systems Change: education and workforce systems will no longer operate in silos, but instead will allow people to move seamlessly between education and career—enabling them to learn, upskill, and reskill, unlocking new opportunities across a lifetime
We developed our 2020 Impact Report to provide a detailed look at these three grantmaking focus areas and to spotlight 10 of our grantees and their work. The report also notes the Foundation’s response to Covid-19 and the extension of our commitment to communities of color. A high-level look at our impact in 2020 is below:
$17 million in grants to 30+ organizations spanning K-12, higher education and workforce development
100,000 individuals in 30+ communities across the U.S. impacted by investments designed to strengthen skills training programs and expand access to computer science education
$10 million jointly committed to immediate Covid-19 relief by Cognizant and the Cognizant U.S. Foundation
$5 million commitment to support communities of color across the country
Moving forward, we are poised to continue delivering on our charge in both U.S. and international markets. With a timely mission, clear focus and demonstrable impact, the Foundation’s grantmaking in the years ahead will build on our existing investments—all bolstered by Cognizant’s continued commitment to corporate social responsibility.
We are excited to showcase our work and the stories of grantees changing lives in our 2020 Impact Report—we hope that you find inspiration reading it.