Microsoft On The Issues offers perspectives from Microsoft on legal, public policy and citizenship topics. Microsoft passionately believes in the power and potential of technology, and that the right tech policies can help underpin innovation, encourage competition and ensure tech innovations continue to benefit everyone. Microsoft shares their point of view and ideas on topics as diverse as privacy, cybersecurity, intellectual property, environmental sustainability, education and corporate citizenship. Learn more at Microsoft On The Issues.
Nearly two years into Microsoft's Affordable Housing Initiative, it has become apparent that in order to close the affordable housing gap there needs to be fresh, innovative approaches to housing finance – in Washington and nationwide. Despite continued rapid growth in greater Seattle, the community is not providing enough housing that is affordable for people who live here – particularly low- and middle-income households. For example, between 2011 and 2019 jobs grew 24% while housing only grew 12%, and, while median household income increased by 34% median, housing prices increased by 78%. This challenge is compounded by the deep economic crisis of Covid-19, and the historical inequity faced by communities of color.
Microsoft announced a set of investments totaling $65 million (of the company's overall $750 million commitment) to help support the creation of more than 1,000 new affordable housing units for greater Seattle. To read more about the investments, visit Microsoft On The Issues.
