You can’t be what you can’t see
First Tech Fund breaks down barriers for students by providing them with technology, mentorship, and a practical curriculum to prepare them for careers of the future.
Our Outcomes
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Our Outcomes •
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Equipped
Fellows are given the technology and tools necessary to succeed in today’s modern world.
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Prepared
Fellows are empowered with confidence and knowledge to navigate their own academic and professional journeys.
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Inspired
Fellows increase their opportunities through awareness of diverse paths and accomplishments.
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Connected
Fellows are never alone—enriched through an expanded network of available peers, alumni, and mentors.
Our Approach
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Our Approach •
Tech Access
We provide Fellows with a personal laptop (to keep) and a mobile hotspot with unlimited data for the school year. Finding information and learning online becomes more important than ever as the digital divide is projected to get worse, so we ensure they have the proper tools and know how to get the most out of them.
Weekly Learning Opportunities
Our staff hosts weekly virtual meetings, panels, and workshops across a variety of practical topics and disciplines. Topics include (but are not limited to) navigating the college admissions process, resume writing, financial literacy, brand building, and more.
Dedicated Mentorship
Fellows have access to monthly check-ins with an assigned mentor, often with a background of similarly aligned aspirations. Our mentors span a broad range of fields including law, medicine, finance, business, public service, technology, and more.
Building Network
Fellows become part of a tight-knit community throughout the year they can rely on for life. We offer multiple opportunities across all of our online and offline programming to connect with peers, alumni, and accomplished professionals in all industries.
“This program has given me the support I need in the college process and has introduced me to things I might encounter in the future like having to speak in public and writing an email to a professor.”
Victor F.
First Tech Fund 2021-2022
“First Tech Fund provided me with a community where I can fully be myself and express my ideas fully! I am grateful to the First Tech Fund for granting me this opportunity.”
Jaida T.
First Tech Fund 2021-2022
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to be a First Tech Fund Fellow?
The Fellowship is completely free for students and families. We are funded by contributions from the general public and encourage those who can to support us in our mission to close the digital divide.
Is this available outside of the NYC area?
For now, First Tech Fund is focused on the NYC area, but in the future, we hope to expand to the Tri-State area and beyond!
Who is eligible for the First Tech Fund Fellowship?
We accept rising 9th–rising 12th grade high school students from the five boroughs in NYC to apply to our program, regardless of immigration status. First Tech Fund is looking for students who are ambitious, set high expectations for themselves, are resilient, and are motivated to succeed, but need a one time seed investment in the form of a laptop and Wi-Fi access to further themselves along.
How long is the First Tech Fund Fellowship?
The fellowship is a year-long program from September to June. We place a strong emphasis on building a community and launching your network. Alumni continue to receive ongoing support beyond the end of the program via access to scholarships, speaking opportunities, in-person events, resume help, college access support, career support, and more.
When are the First Tech Fund Fellowship events?
The fellowship program hosts weekly, virtual 1-hour workshops on Tuesday and/or Thursday evenings on Zoom. We also plan a few optional, in-person networking and professional development events with our corporate and community partners throughout the year.
Do I get to keep the technology equipment?
Participants are eligible to receive free technology—laptop and/or WiFi hotspot—based on their individual needs. The laptop can be kept so long as they successfully complete the fellowship program.
What will I do during the First Tech Fund fellowship?
As a First Tech Fund fellow, you will participate in weekly, virtual workshops to build digital, foundational skills by attending weekly on topics including: digital literacy, financial literacy, personal narrative & storytelling, career exploration, career readiness, growth mindset and community collaboration. You will work on your resume, online brand, college preparation, and more.
You will also have the opportunity to receive personalized mentorship from an industry professional and build social capital—networks of relationships among other fellows, FTF alumni and young professionals you meet during our career development workshops and events.
Is there a reason there are no grade requirements?
Yes, this is intentional—First Tech Fund doesn’t believe that someone’s grades indicate their future success. We want to make this accessible to all students who have a desire to improve their lives and we’ll meet them where they are. We know that there are many reasons one’s grades could be less than perfect, but that doesn’t mean that the potential to improve isn’t there. All we look for is the burning desire to succeed.
How do I apply for the program?
You can apply for the program here. Check out our Application Webinar to learn more about the fellowship and get insight on application and essay tips. We recommend you write out the essay questions in a separate document, as you can not save drafts within the website. If you have issues with the form please email us at info@firsttechfund.com
I don't have a computer and/or Internet and can't access the application online, how can I apply?
Please email us at info@firsttechfund.com and we can send you the application to print at your local library. Or, you can submit your answers to the questions in the form by writing your responses on paper and mailing them to 299 Van Buren Street #2A Brooklyn, Ny 11221.