There is something about this special time of year that inspires a spirit of giving. Perhaps it’s the chilly weather, twinkly lights, or seemingly omnipresent hot chocolate? One can’t be sure. Yet, there is no doubt that this season of sharing isn’t simply reserved for presents under trees — the tech world knows how to give back to its community, too.
Though they won’t be wrapping up fuzzy socks or your favorite Harry Potter book, these NYC tech companies are inspiring giving in a variety of ways:
This startup just raised $13 million in a Series A round to fund its unique culinary incubators. Their series of fully-equipped kitchens make it easy for aspiring food professionals to break through the notoriously stringent barriers of the food and beverage industry. Pilotworks plans to continue its rapid expansion in 2018, bringing its one-of-a-kind workspaces, and unique mentorship program that focuses on business-building skills, nationwide.
Blockchain isn’t just for Bitcoin, you know — and this startup proves it. Blockchain for Change is dedicated to using this advanced technology to do social good. Their first product, an app called Fummi, was recently released to 3,000 homeless individuals in NYC. Fummi comes preloaded on a smartphone and allows users to access shelters, food pantries and financial services. The app also empowers its users with a digital identity — something many homeless people do not have but is necessary to access government programs like food stamps.
For some, the holidays can be an emotionally difficult time. Yet, getting the support we need is sometimes easier said than done. Crisis Text Line was developed to serve as an emergency contact in times of emotional distress. Unlike other messaging services, Crisis Text Line is completely free and available 24/7. What’s more, the company just expanded its services to Chicago and Los Angeles.
Public schools in the United States are notoriously underfunded, and teachers regularly dip into their own paychecks to cover classroom costs. Donors Choose is a nonprofit crowdfunding platform that allows individuals to sponsor classrooms across the country. While the dollar-amount goal of any given project is typically on the lower side, these donations no doubt make a world of difference to both teachers and their students.
If you have a goal to get in shape this new year, Charity Miles wants to help you — and help others in the process. The app allows you to convert time spent exercising into money that is donated to a cause of your choice, with options ranging from the ASPCA to the Wounded Warrior Project. The app has raised more than $2.5 million since its inception, and its next dollar could be as easy as a walk to the park.
Yes, Blue Apron will deliver a tasty meal kit to your door — but did you know the company is also committed to sustainable and ethical farming practices? The company sources all of its meat, fish, and produce from farms that meet its standards for animal welfare and land regeneration. What’s more, the company plans its menus so as to eliminate food waste, and regularly distributes food to those in need.
Traditional therapy can be costly and time-consuming — not to mention that many people lack traditional health insurance necessary to see certain therapists. Talkspace wants to make quality mental health care both affordable and accessible. Their unique text-message therapy allows individuals to communicate with licensed clinicians at any time, no matter where they are. The site reports more than 500,000 users and growing.
