Tees Business is proud to be raising funds for the Digital Poverty Appeal through the second annual Tees Tech Awards.

Last year’s Covid-enforced school closures highlighted the fact that many underprivileged Teesside pupils struggle with their studies away from the classroom due to poor access to technology including laptops, iPads and similar.

Tees Business supported a Digital Poverty campaign that was kicked off by Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston and supported by Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation. Thanks to the generous support of many local firms, the appeal raised more than £100,000 – including a generous individual donation of £20,000 from tech entrepreneur Dean Benson.

With digital poverty remaining a real issue on Teesside, Dean has committed to donating £20,000 every year – and tonight we aim to kickstart a new round of fundraising. All funds raised will go to local schools to help them provide tech for disadvantaged pupils.

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