Creating It Futures Foundation Inc

Overview
Creating It Futures Foundation Inc is a nonprofit organization established in 1998 by CompTIA. Designated as a 501(c)(3) organization, it focuses on empowering populations underrepresented in the information technology (IT) industry. The foundation aims to help individuals lacking opportunities prepare for, secure, and thrive in IT careers.

Mission
The foundation's mission is to provide educational resources and training that promote tech fluency among diverse demographics, especially focusing on women, people of color, and veterans. The organization is committed to making tech education accessible and engaging, thereby fostering a new generation of skilled professionals in the IT sector.

Programs and Services
Creating It Futures operates multiple programs designed to support its mission:

• IT-Ready Career Training: This flagship program offers free, instructor-led IT training to unemployed and underemployed adults. The curriculum focuses on preparing participants for CompTIA A+ certification and includes both technical skills and soft skills training. Classes are available online and in various locations across the United States, including cities like Chicago, San Diego, and Phoenix.

• TechGirlz: A specific program within the foundation that targets middle school girls, offering resources and activities designed to spark interest in technology and provide tech-centered learning opportunities.

• CyberPrep Programs: Additional youth-focused initiatives like CyberPrep Explore and CyberPrep ITF+ aim to extend the foundation's reach and impact within the tech education space.

Financials
According to the foundation's financial data from their Form 990, notable revenue sources include contributions, program service fees, and investment income. In the fiscal year ending December 2021, the foundation reported total revenue of approximately $11.5 million. The organization utilizes these funds to support its various programs and operational expenses, with a significant portion allocated toward executive compensation and salaries for staff involved in these initiatives.

Structure and Governance
Creating It Futures operates under a board of directors and is managed by a team led by its CEO, Charles Eaton. The board includes individuals with diverse expertise, helping guide the foundation's strategy and operations in alignment with its mission.

Impact
The foundation has successfully placed a substantial percentage of its graduates into entry-level IT positions, contributing to addressing the workforce gap in the technology sector. Its programs have not only provided education but also facilitated pathways to sustainable careers, thereby driving economic growth and promoting diversity within the IT industry.

As of August 2022, Creating It Futures underwent a rebranding to CompTIA Spark, with a refocused strategy on youth programming. This shift emphasizes the importance of early tech education as foundational for future career success in an increasingly digital economy.

[1] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/364295421 [2] https://www.comptiaspark.org/resources/blog/blog-details/news-3 [3] https://www.comptia.org/newsroom/creating-it-futures-takes-its-successful-it-ready-career-training-online [4] https://www.comptia.org/newsroom/creating-it-futures-doubles-its-free-it-training-career-program-for-adults-for-2019 [5] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/creating-it-futures-takes-its-successful-it-ready-career-training-online-300804247.html