THE GROWTH AND PRESENCE OF TECHNOLOGY IN OUR EVERYDAY LIVES IS AN UNDENIABLE REALITY. Advancements and breakthroughs have cultivated a day-to-day of convenience and ease for many people. Here’s an almost globally relatable example: It’s raining out and you don’t have an umbrella for your walk. Answer? Call a ride with a few simple taps. Technology also increases access to information — if you can get on the internet, you can find out what’s happening at any moment practically anywhere. It can also create a safer environment; Umbrellium, a U.K. team of urban technologists, recently created and launched an interactive pedestrian crossing that responds dynamically in real time to make pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers safer and more aware of each other. From real-time communication at our fingertips to unprecedented advancements in healthcare to empowering millions in their careers, many would agree that technology has changed the world for the better. “ YOUNGER GENERATIONS WANT TO BE IN AN ENVIRONMENT AND BUSINESS THAT’S ABOUT PURPOSE. THEY WANT TO MAKE SURE THE COMPANY THEY’RE IN IS COMMITTED TO IMPROVING THE STATE OF THE WORLD.” - MARC BENIOFF AT THE ANNUAL FORTUNE CEO INITIATIVE MEETING, JUNE 2019 Many tech companies focus tremendous efforts on how their products, workforce, and presence can better the communities around them. Sometimes that can also involve answering tough questions. This age of transparency means businesses and business leaders are rethinking how they operate and thrive in today's world. Brand-new companies that are just getting started and may only have one or two employees, weave values around sustainability, diversity, and philanthropy into the fabric of their business from day one. Twenty years ago, Salesforce transformed corporate philanthropy with the 1-1-1 model of integrated giving. Since then, hundreds of companies of all sizes have adopted aspects of the 1-1-1 model. Pledge 1% is a movement dedicated to making the world a better place by inspiring, fostering, and celebrating early-stage corporate philanthropy by encouraging companies to pledge 1% of equity, product, and employee time for their communities. FALL 2018 SUMMER 2019 THETHE EXCHANGE EXCHANGE 1717