L.A. Area Chamber Announces $1 Million Software Grant from Microsoft

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that it received a Microsoft Software grant, valued at $1 million, which will enhance the Chamber’s programs and services for its members and the broader business community in the region.

Through the software grant from Microsoft, the L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce aims to use Microsoft’s SharePoint, Live Meeting and other technologies to facilitate online meetings and create efficiencies in its ongoing member communications and advocacy initiatives. 

“The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and its members will greatly benefit from Microsoft’s generous $1 million software grant,” said Gary Toebben, President & CEO, Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.  “We will use Microsoft technologies, like SharePoint and Live Meeting, to improve product delivery to our members and help speed economic recovery in our region.”

As a leading advocate for education and workforce development in the region, the L.A. Area Chamber also plans to leverage Microsoft technologies to improve its workforce development programs, which are preparing the 21st century workforce for today’s global economy.  In 2008, the L.A. Area Chamber served more than 35,000 young adults through its college access, jobs skills training and youth employment programs.

“In today’s challenging economic climate it’s more important than ever for Microsoft and its employees to support the communities in which we live and work,” said Keith Otis, Microsoft’s Southwest District Manager.  “We are pleased to provide this grant to help the Chamber advance its efforts in developing a workforce capable of meeting the demands of today’s global economy.”

Since 2003, Microsoft and its employees have donated more than $209 million in cash, curriculum, software and volunteer time in support of community organizations, educational institutions and human service agencies in the state of California.

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