Microsoft Indonesia and YCAB Foundation: Technology for Sustainable Development

Microsoft Indonesia (Microsoft) partners with Yayasan Cinta Anak Bangsa (YCAB Foundation) in implementing “YouthSpark” program which aims to increase access for marginalized youth to learn computer science. The program was implemented between 2013 and 2014 in Jakarta, and between 2014 and 2015 in Jambi, with possibilities of extension.

Both organizations agreed to partner based on their common view on the importance of the financial independence for high school and vocational school students, and also young people aged 16-18 years old. The activity comprised of three parts: (1) seminar to motivate youth to become independent, (2) group coaching to start new business using IT, and (3) access to get seed funding.

By April 2015, YouthSpark program had reached 3,000 youth, 400 of whom successfully opened their own business with IT support (Office 365), and also received seed funding.