Overview
Develop for Good is a nonprofit that helps diverse college students build software for nonprofits under industry mentors. Students work on real-world tech projects with guidance from professionals, gaining hands-on experience and professional networks to jump-start their careers. How it works: Through mentor-led programs, students collaborate on meaningful nonprofit projects, learn software development practices, and showcase their work to potential employers. The nonprofit provides structure, partnerships, and support, while industry mentors provide technical guidance and feedback. How it’s different: The focus is on mentorship and project-based learning that connects diverse students with industry professionals to create impact for nonprofits, rather than traditional internships or classroom-only experiences. Goal: To prepare and empower the next generation of tech leaders by giving them practical, impactful experience on projects that help nonprofits succeed.
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Simplify's take
What believers are saying
- Okta granted $25,000 in 2026, validating external demand and fundraising momentum.
- Winter 2027 applications opened by October 2026, showing continued nonprofit interest.
- The Smithsonian project in 2026 boosts brand credibility and recruitment appeal.
What critics are saying
- Develop for Good relies on volunteers; a participation dip breaks delivery quickly.
- Only $407K in grants from 2022-2024 leaves funding concentration around Tides Foundation.
- One failed nonprofit batch destroys reputation and kills future nonprofit applications.
What makes Develop for Good unique
- Develop for Good runs 16-week nonprofit software batches with student and mentor teams.
- The organization pairs technical volunteering with career-building for underrepresented students, unlike standard pro bono shops.
- Its 2026 work spans Smithsonian Institution and 370 nonprofit projects, signaling institutional trust.
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