Announcing the Fall 2023 #InvestingInYou Scholarship Cohort

Since expanding our scholarship program to address needs beyond tech conferences, one thing we noticed was how common laptop funding requests were. 

Whether it was someone from a household with only one shared computer, to an individual needing their own laptop after graduating from a coding bootcamp, the need for basic access to technology was clear. 

 
 

To meet this need, we piloted a hardware scholarship cycle in partnership with Free Geek to offer laptops directly to 12 awardees. In our Fall 2023 cycle, we had 28 applicants whose submissions were reviewed by a volunteer committee of 19 tech professionals.  

We asked scholarship recipients how they heard about the #InvestingInYou scholarship and how the award would impact their careers. 

Here’s what some of them had to say: 

 
 

I learned about this scholarship through my sister…She is pursuing a career in tech and wants to see more BIPOC women in the field. Her journey inspired me to advance my own tech career. I noticed a lack of representation for women who look like me in the industry, which I believe stems from insufficient resources and support. PDXWIT InvestingInYou scholarship provides an opportunity for me to further progress in my tech career. I am thrilled to receive the PDXWIT InvestingInYou scholarship and remain committed to achieving my goals. – Hudda Osman

 
 
 

I heard about the scholarship in the PDXWIT newsletter. As a woman studying computer science, I hope to advocate for gender equality in STEM fields and pursue my passion in the tech industry. This scholarship is both a financial boost and a powerful affirmation of my aspirations. It empowers me to excel both academically and professionally with the confidence and resources I need, propelling me toward a future where I can make a truly positive impact on the tech industry. – Xiuwen Zhu

 
 
 

Having access to newer tech allows me to enter technology roles on equal footing with my peers. Alleviating the financial hurdle gives me room to put my energy into my joy for learning and acquiring new skills to catapult me into my career. I feel incredibly graced. ¡Estamos Aquí! – Sara Cobián 


 

Thank you Free Geek for your incredible support!

About the program

Launched in 2018 with the goal of creating baseline access for individuals exploring a career in tech, our #InvestingInYou scholarship program has distributed over $100k in funds to dozens of tech professionals, covering everything from conference expenses to home office upgrades. 

Our scholarship program is open to PDXWIT members 18 and over who reside in the US.

What’s next for #InvestingInyou?

Beginning in 2024, the #InvestingInYou scholarship will come in two updated cycles: 

  • Spring cycle: Hardware (For basic access to laptops)

  • Fall cycle: Up to $1,500 in professional development support (Limited to a workshop, course, certification, or tech bootcamp)

Be the first to know when our next scholarship cycle is open to applications by subscribing to our newsletter! 

And if you don’t need the financial support but want to give that gift to someone, please consider becoming a Scholarship Fund Champion.

Isabel J. Rodriguezbipoc, scholarship, women, women in tech, investing in you