NetApp’s Social Impact initiatives are centered around four strategic pillars:
The World Economic Forum has identified data science as the area with the largest skills gap for tomorrow’s workers. Through our Data Explorers program and more, we’re partnering with employees, customers, and nonprofits to inspire and engage young minds (children and youth) with data/AI literacy, preparing them for tomorrow’s workforce.
Diversity is vital in data science and AI. To counter biases that may arise from data reflecting only certain demographics, we're working to expand representation in these fields. Through grants and initiatives like scholarships and internships for underrepresented students, we aim for a future where data and AI benefit everyone.
As the use of data and AI skyrockets, so too does the consumption of energy and water needed to run data centers – yet data and AI can also help generate innovative solutions to those issues. In line with NetApp’s ESG vision around sustainability, our grantmaking supports select NGOs that are using data and AI to tackle these challenges, reducing our carbon footprint in the process.
Through our employee community engagement programs, we support NetApp employees when they support their communities. Our people can take advantage of matching gifts, up to five days of paid Volunteer Time Off annually, and opportunities to earn grants tied to individual and team volunteering as well as board service. As a company, we celebrate volunteers’ contributions through our annual global volunteer awards and promote employee giving through our annual Global Giving Challenge, when each employee receives a NetApp microgrant to donate to the cause of their choice.
In our annual ESG report, NetApp showcases how we leverage data/AI for good and uphold our core values to positively impact individuals and communities, fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for all. This includes a yearly update on our Social Impact initiatives.