Connecting Communities, Empowering Futures : How Computers for Success Advances Digital Access and Sustainability Across Canada

In today’s connected world, access to technology is essential for learning, working, and staying engaged in society. Computers for Success (CFS) advances digital access while supporting environmental sustainability through the responsible reuse of technology across Canada.

Building on decades of experience, CFS connects refurbished devices with the people and organizations that need them most — helping reduce barriers to opportunity ,extend the life of technology, and strengthen communities nationwide.

Expanding Digital Access Where It Matters Most

Computers for Success collaborates with partners across the country to ensure technology reaches under serviced populations. Through its initiatives, CFS supports:

·      Schools and community organizations

·      Indigenous communities

·      Low-income households and seniors

·      Newcomer sand individuals accessing community services.

For recipients, access to a reliable device can be transformative — enabling participation in education, improving access to employment opportunities, and supporting connection to critical digital services.

A Strong Foundation to Build On

CFS moves forward informed by the 32 years of delivery experience and measured outcomes of earlier national initiatives, including the former Government of Canada–funded Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program, which concluded on March 31, 2026.

·      More than 2.2 million devices were distributed across Canada.

·      Technology reached schools, community organizations, Indigenous communities, low-income households, seniors, and newcomers.

·      Devices played a key role in enabling digital participation for individuals and families:

·      50,000+devices to the Connecting Families Initiative

·      7,500 devices to the #WelcomeRefugees program

Demonstrated Impact for Device Recipients

Access to a device can transform how individuals engage with the world. Among CFS recipients:

·      77% used their devices for education

·      67% used them for communication

·      45% used them for employment-related activities

·      36.5% relied on their devices to access essential services such as healthcare and taxes

·      52% previously had no access to a device

·      27% shared a single device among five or more people

·      57% reduced household technology costs

·      42.5% of devices remained in use after three years

These numbers highlight a simple truth: digital access is no longer optional; it is essential for participating fully in society.

Strengthening Skills and Workforce Readiness

CFS goes beyond device distribution by investing in people. Its digital skills internship program equips youth with practical experience and career-ready competencies.

·      9,100+ digital skills internships supported

·      84% of participants reported their needs were met

·      82% reported improved employability skills

Participants reflected diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous youth, women, racialized communities, and persons with disabilities.

Driving Environmental Sustainability Through Reuse

Beyond social impact, CFS plays a critical role in environmental sustainability. By refurbishing and redistributing devices, the program helps reduce electronic waste and carbon emissions.

·      19,000+ tonnes of electronic waste diverted from landfills

·      1,000,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions prevented

·      Equivalent to removing 200,000 cars from the road for one year

·      Equivalent to powering roughly 59,900 Canadian homes for one year

Through these efforts, CFS demonstrates how technology reuse can support both people and the planet.

Powered by Collaboration

A major driver of CFS success is the CEO Pledge, which brings together corporate partners committed to digital equity and sustainability. With 28 active donors across Canada, the initiative has contributed over 127,000 devices in the past three years.

Leading partners include organizations such as Microsoft, Desjardins, Deloitte, Bell,and TELUS, among others. Their contributions highlight how collaboration across sectors can drive meaningful change.

Bridging the Digital Divide Today and Tomorrow

CFS is a national movement toward inclusion, sustainability, and opportunity. By connecting millions of Canadians with the tools they need; while reducing environmental impact, it sets a powerful example of what can be achieved when innovation meets purpose. As digital access continues to shape the future, initiatives like CFS ensure that no one is left behind.

Join the movement

Whether you are a corporation looking to donate technology or an organization in need of digital tools, your involvement creates a tangible difference for communities across Canada.

Computers for Success represents the next phase of advancing digital access in Canada. Together, we can ensure technology works for everyone.

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