The Public Interest Technology University Network (PIT-UN) is a consortium of universities and foundations that collaborate to develop the field of public interest technology. It was formed in March 2019.[1]

The group currently has 59 member universities from across the U.S. and four international institutions.:[2]

PIT-UN seeks to address challenges between industry and society.[3] Member institutions are committed to bringing together students and educators from multiple disciplines together to solve the toughest challenges the U.S. and the world face, by building the nascent field of public interest technology and growing a new generation of civic-minded technologists. Through the development of curricula, research agendas, and experiential learning programs in the public interest technology space, the member institutions are using innovative tactics with the aim to develop graduates with multiple fluencies at the intersection of technology and policy.[2]

In October 2019 the organization awarded US$3 million in grants to 21 institutions.[4] The organization has since awarded more rounds of funding through the PIT University Network Challenge. In 2020 28 institutions were awarded grants totaling $4.4 million, and in November 2021 $3.61 million was awarded to 24 institutions. In October 2022, $2.3 million was awarded to 18 institutions.[5][6] Grants are exclusively available via application to members of PIT-UN.[6]

Members

The full list of current PIT-UN members as of December 2022 is:[2]

Educational institutions interested in joining PIT UN can review the process on Pitcases[7]

References

  1. ^ Singer, Natasha (2019-03-11). "Top Universities Join to Push 'Public Interest Technology'". The New York Times.
  2. ^ a b c "Members directory". New America. 2023-01-20. Retrieved 2023-03-10.
  3. ^ Hines, Michael (10 March 2020). "What Is Public Interest Technology?". Built In.
  4. ^ "Public Interest Technology University Network Receives $3.1 Million". Philanthropy News Digest (PND).
  5. ^ "Network Challenge". New America. Retrieved 2021-11-11.
  6. ^ a b "As Big Tech Faces Scrutiny, 24 Universities Get $3.6M from Major Foundations to Fuel Inclusive Public Interest Technology". New America. Retrieved 2021-11-11.
  7. ^ "Apply to be a Member". New America. Retrieved 2021-11-11.

External links

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