Showing it soft side, Microsoft extended its lquote Unlimited Potential (UP) grant programme to Sri Lanka to help IT based community technology and learning centers deployed by non-governmental organizations.
Microsoft, has dolled out some US$ 79 million (Rupees 8137 million) in monetary grants, software, technology solutions, curriculum donations and employee volunteer hours to 78 countries through three phases of the UP initiative.
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rnNonprofit organizations (with an exemption list that includes schools and hospitals) can submit proposals for funding under the UP programme.rn
rnFunding is made available to the projects that meet Microsofts criteria for community development projects. rn
rnOn Monday, the Sarvodaya Movements rural telecentre development project was the first to receive funding under the UP initiative, collecting a Rs. 13 mn grant that includes Rs. 2 mn in Microsoft software.rn
rnThe monies will pay for communication equipment only, and will not support infrastructure and rent