Are organisations missing a simple way to tackle digital exclusion?
Every day, people miss out on jobs, struggle to manage bills or can’t access essential services simply because they’re not online. Digital access is often taken for granted, yet around 1.7 million people in the UK don’t have a laptop, desktop or tablet at home.
Meanwhile, organisations regularly refresh IT equipment. Perfectly usable devices can end up stored, written off or recycled too early. While some business processes allow devices to be sold on for a small rebate, they rarely consider how that same equipment could help tackle digital exclusion.
This matters because being online is no longer optional. Job applications, banking, energy accounts and public services are increasingly digital and organisations rely on people being able to access the very systems they create.
It’s time to change the process.
Surplus devices with limited financial value can be redirected into communities where they make a real difference.
That’s why we created the GM Tech Fund: to connect surplus organisational technology with residents who need it most, supporting digital inclusion while delivering social and environmental benefits across Greater Manchester.
What is the GM Tech Fund?
The GM Tech Fund provides a simple and secure IT disposal route for businesses. Working with our not-for-profit partner, Community Computers, we collect surplus equipment, refurbish devices where possible, and ensure they are passed on to people who need them most. To date, more than 3,500 devices have been gifted to support digitally excluded residents.
What does your organisation gain?
The process is straightforward:
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Secure and compliant
Your devices are professionally data-wiped to recognised industry standards, giving you a secure disposal route you can trust. You’ll receive data destruction certificates and a clear audit trail for reassurance and accountability.
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Supports ESG and social value reporting
Where possible, equipment is refurbished and reissued so it stays in use for longer. If it can’t be reused, it is responsibly stripped for parts or recycled. You’ll also receive environmental and social impact reporting to help demonstrate your organisation’s ESG commitments and wider social value.
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Delivers visible reputational and community benefit
Your donated tech helps people apply for jobs, use essential services and stay connected. We’ll provide a social impact report so you can clearly evidence, and share, the difference your organisation is making in local communities.
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Cost-free and simple to take part
There’s no cost to participate, and the process is designed to be straightforward for busy organisations. A small proportion of devices are sold to families and community groups to help cover refurbishment costs, making the model practical as well as impactful.
How can you make a change?
Now is the time to stop and ask: what happens to our devices, and could they do more good? Digital exclusion can be solved, especially when we work together. By rethinking how surplus IT equipment is reused, your organisation can help more people get online and access the very digital systems that make modern organisations work.
To get started, request the information pack or arrange a conversation with our refurbishment partner through The Greater Manchester Technology Fund. It’s a simple, secure and cost-free way to turn surplus IT into measurable environmental, social and reputational value.
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