Digital Nova Scotia unveils $100k TechQuity Award to empower African Nova Scotians in tech

HALIFAX, NS - August 12, 2024 – Digital Nova Scotia (DNS) is proud to announce the establishment of the Digital Nova Scotia TechQuity Award, an innovative educational scholarship designed to support African Nova Scotian students pursuing undergraduate studies in the technology sector. This landmark initiative made possible through a $100,000 endowment fund in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia (CFNS), underscores DNS' commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the digital industry.“We are incredibly thrilled to introduce the TechQuity Award,” said Owen Sagness, CEO of Digital Nova Scotia. “This initiative highlights our dedication to making Nova Scotia's digital sector accessible and fair for all. By backing students from underrepresented communities, we strive to create a more inclusive and innovative tech environment.”The Digital Nova Scotia TechQuity Award will provide financial support to students from African Nova Scotian communities who are planning to study in fields such as computer science, information technology, digital innovation and cybersecurity, to name a few. The award aims to address the barriers faced by students from underserved communities and those underrepresented in the tech sector by offering meaningful financial assistance.“The establishment of the Digital Nova Scotia TechQuity Award is a tangible and significant step towards creating a more diverse and inclusive tech industry in Nova Scotia,” said Andreas Robinson, Chair of Digital Nova Scotia’s DEI Committee. “By investing in the education of underrepresented students, DNS is paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future in technology.”Beginning this school year, DNS will award at least $5,000 annually to a deserving student. The Digital Nova Scotia Educational Award Committee, along with designated DNS staff and volunteers, will select the scholarship recipients. Applications for the Digital Nova Scotia TechQuity Award are now open! You can apply, find more information and eligibility criteria here. Media Contact:Ashley FieldDirector of Marketing & Communications | Digital Nova ScotiaHalifax, Nova Scotia · Canada(902) 225-4656 | ashley@digitalnovascotia.comAbout Digital Nova ScotiaDigital Nova Scotia is the industry association for Nova Scotia’s $3.6 billion ICT and digital technologies sector. Programs, events and partnerships enable DNS to connect the digital community and promote its successes. Through skills development, capacity building, industry events, collaboration and the promotion of IT opportunities, DNS supports our sector as it continues to grow, evolve and thrive.