ST Foundation has been honoured with the Best CSR Initiative for Digital Equity and Inclusion award in the Corporate Category at the 7th Bharat CSR & Sustainability Summit and Awards 2026, organised by The Brainalytics in New Delhi. The recognition acknowledges the Foundation’s sustained efforts to bridge the digital divide through its flagship Digital Unify Program, which promotes digital literacy, educational access and technology-enabled community development across India.
Established in 2001 as the non-profit corporate entity of STMicroelectronics, ST Foundation develops and supports initiatives that harness science and technology to improve lives. Working with non-profit organisations and community partners across the world, the Foundation focuses on expanding educational opportunities, strengthening local capabilities and creating sustainable social impact.
In India, the Digital Unify Program has become a key initiative for promoting digital inclusion among underserved communities. The programme provides access to digital devices, internet connectivity, training and inclusive learning resources, enabling individuals with limited access to technology to develop essential digital skills. Implemented in partnership with NGOs and local organisations, the initiative is designed to address community-specific needs while ensuring long-term sustainability.
A defining feature of the programme is its Train-the-Trainer model, which equips local educators and community facilitators with the knowledge and resources needed to train others. This approach expands the programme’s reach, encourages community ownership and helps build lasting digital capabilities. The initiative is further strengthened by the active participation of current and retired STMicroelectronics employees who volunteer their time and expertise.
Commenting on the recognition, Kamal Deep Jain, Country Manager, ST Foundation India, said, “Our focus has always been on creating opportunities through digital education that can transform lives. By empowering local trainers and working closely with community partners, we have been able to extend the benefits of digital learning to people of all ages and backgrounds while creating a sustainable model for long-term impact.”
The Foundation’s programmes include digital literacy training, responsible use of technology and specialised initiatives such as Introduction to Computer Basics, Tablet for Kids, Introduction to Computer Basics for Visually Impaired People, and Tablet for Seniors, ensuring that children, youth, senior citizens and persons with disabilities can participate in the digital economy.
Highlighting the programme’s impact, Chhavi Bajpai, Director, ST Foundation India, said, “With more than 50 Digital Unify labs established across the country in partnership with NGOs, we have trained over 180,000 individuals, including more than 19,000 participants during the past year. These outcomes reflect our continued commitment to expanding digital access and strengthening communities through education.”
Pietro Palella, President, ST Foundation, added, “This award recognises the dedication of our volunteers, the commitment of our partners and the resilience of the communities we work with. It reinforces our mission to make digital knowledge more accessible and create opportunities for people to participate confidently in an increasingly connected world.”
The recognition underscores ST Foundation’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive digital development and create sustainable social value through education, innovation and collaborative partnerships. STMicroelectronics serves more than 200,000 customers worldwide and operates across the global semiconductor value chain. The company continues to invest in technologies supporting intelligent mobility, industrial automation, energy efficiency, and connected devices, while advancing its sustainability goals, including achieving carbon neutrality across key operations and sourcing 100% renewable electricity by the end of 2027.
