Silicon Valley Bank Scholars Fund Makes $50,000 available for Latinos learning computer programming and data science at Galvanize.
DENVER, Colo. – May. 4, 2015 – Galvanize, a leader in industry-focused education, today announced it has partnered with Silicon Valley Bank to launch the SVB Scholars Fund, funded with $50,000 in scholarships made available for Latino students interested in beginning careers in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. The scholarship fund is a continued effort to increase diversity in web development and data science classes across Galvanize’s campus locations in Denver, San Francisco, Boulder, and Seattle.
Galvanize’s partnership with Silicon Valley Bank will provide scholarships for individuals from underrepresented groups in the tech workforce to learn skills in one of Galvanize’s many educational programs. A recent Galvanize internal study revealed students of Latino descent are one of the least represented groups in Galvanize programs, so initial funds from the SVB Scholars Fund are being directed to Latino students.
“Opportunities for underrepresented groups in tech are increasing, but there’s still plenty of work to do,” said Lawrence Mandes, Galvanize co-founder. “Silicon Valley Bank has been an amazing industry partner, and we’re excited to launch the SVB Scholars Fund with them to offer learning opportunities and access on-ramps for students interested in STEM-related careers.”
Galvanize’s new partnership with Silicon Valley Bank is a result of a long-standing relationship between the two organizations. Currently, SVB has a dedicated office space on Galvanize’s San Francisco campus and offers free banking services for pre-Series A Galvanize community members. Additionally, SVB offers mentoring, fundraising events, and various other opportunities to help Galvanize members increase the likelihood of their future success.
“Finding the talent needed to build and scale a successful, innovative company is the most consistent challenge facing entrepreneurs and high-growth companies,” said Scott Bergquist, Senior Market Manager for Silicon Valley Bank. “Through its various programs, Galvanize is addressing this issue while educating a new American workforce. The SVB Scholars Fund is about creating broad and equal access to this training that helps people develop the skills and knowledge they need to compete in the innovation economy. We’re thrilled to help increase Latino representation in tech fields with this scholarship program.”
The SVB Scholars Fund will provide a total pool of $50,000 through the Galvanize Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, which will be awarded to Latino students in varying amounts at campuses in Denver, San Francisco, Boulder, and Seattle.
About Galvanize
Galvanize is the leading educator for rapid career and organizational transformation. Our programs are designed so that anyone with motivation can succeed, regardless of education, experience, or background. With 8,000+ graduates at 2,250 companies, we are leaders in technical education, empowering learners and leaders across industries to propel their careers and make an impact through tech. Galvanize is a subsidiary of Stride, Inc., a premier provider of innovative, high-quality, tech-enabled education solutions, curriculum, and programs. Learn more at www.galvanize.com.
About Silicon Valley Bank
For more than 30 years, Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) has helped innovative companies and their investors move bold ideas forward, fast. SVB provides targeted financial services and expertise through its offices in innovation centers around the world. With commercial, international and private banking services, SVB helps address the unique needs of innovators. Forbes named SVB one of America’s best banks (2015) and one of America’s best-managed companies (2014).
Silicon Valley Bank is the California bank subsidiary and commercial banking operation of SVB Financial Group (Nasdaq: SIVB), and a member of the FDIC. Silicon Valley Bank and SVB Financial Group are members of the Federal Reserve System.
