Bing Supports Vets with General Assembly's Opportunity Fund

General Assembly, a global educational group that provides best-of-class practical education in business, technology and design, is empowering the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. This week, General Assembly is unveiling the “Opportunity Fund” – a scholarship and support program that is being piloted in New York City to serve underrepresented students entering the technology industry. Bing is proud to be a founding member of the program and is underwriting 8 scholarships for military veterans. 

Why are we taking part? When you consider the unemployment rate for post 9/11 veterans is 36 percent higher than that of civilians, there is a visible lack of veterans in the technology industry, and startups and technology companies report they have a hard time filling open positions, it’s clear there is a great opportunity for veterans looking for their next career. However, transitioning into a technical field like software engineering can be daunting, so that’s where Microsoft and Bing can help by providing scholarships for 8 veterans to participate in the Opportunity Fund. Additionally, Hirepurpose, an organization that connects veterans with career opportunities, will provide a housing stipend and career support for veterans accepted into the Opportunity Fund program. 

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We’re proud to partner with General Assembly on this, and are excited for what the future holds. Veterans who want to learn more about the General Assembly Opportunity Fund and would like to apply for the Bing scholarships can go here.    This, along with Microsoft’s Software and Systems Academy and our other programs to serve those who have served provide an opportunity to both fill in-demand careers and give vets more essential skills for the economy of tomorrow. 

– Stefan Weitz, Senior Director, Bing