History

CTN started as a program of CompuMentor (now TechSoup Global) in August 2001 at a regional community technology meeting of the America Connects Consortium. As a CompuMentor program, CTN thrived as a regional collaboration of informed technology and community empowerment professionals. In its first five years, CTN hosted several successful events and produced and shared valuable resource materials. CTN also created a series of Best Practices Guides using accumulated feedback from community technology practitioners.

In 2006, catalyzed by TechSoup’s enhanced national and international focus, a committee led by former CTN Chairman of the Board Barrie Hathaway gathered to assess community needs and determine CTN’s direction. The committee interviewed and surveyed more than 25 community technology agencies, which clearly indicated an ongoing and deep need for the important work of CTN. In June 2008, with funding from the Full Circle Fund, CTN received 501(c)3 status and become an independent nonprofit organization.

Today, a 13 member Board of Directors, and five staff manage CTN. Leadership consists of community and business leaders, including directors and technology advocates from Bay Area non-profits. The CTN Board directs organizational priorities, business activities, content development and events.