Founders Reflections Five Years On
Five years from our inception, we’re still here - and stronger than ever.
The Scottish Tech Army was born in the earliest days of the Covid-19 pandemic, sparked by CEO Alistair Forbes’ vision to mobilise the UK’s tech talent for public good. Alistair, together with co-founders Pete Jaco, an experienced angel investor and tech leader, and Sandy Finlayson, a respected figure in the Scottish business community, quickly transformed this vision into reality. The urgency of the moment was clear: charities and third sector organisations, suddenly forced to operate virtually, needed digital solutions - fast.
An Extraordinary Volunteer Response
The response from the tech community was nothing short of extraordinary. Within a week of launch, 200 volunteers had signed up, a number that would quickly multiply as word spread. These volunteers came from all walks of life - software engineers, project managers, data analysts, and more - united by a shared commitment to “tech for good.” Many were on furlough, seizing the opportunity to use their skills for a cause that mattered.
Meeting Urgent Needs
Charities, too, responded in force. In our very first month, we received over 30 project requests, each one reflecting a unique challenge: from helping care homes stay connected to families, to supporting food banks and community groups in scaling their services online. The Scottish Tech Army became a lifeline, delivering practical, scalable solutions at a time when resources were stretched to the limit.
Five Years On: What Has Changed – and What Endures
In those early days, our focus was clear: response, repair, renew. We tackled urgent problems head-on, building dashboards for real-time Covid-19 data, developing secure platforms for remote support, and helping organisations adapt to a digital-first world.
But as the pandemic receded, our mission evolved. What remained constant was the spirit of volunteerism - the willingness of skilled people to give back, to innovate for the greater good.
Our Impact Today
Today, nearly 4,000 volunteers have joined our ranks, working on over 400 projects with organisations across Scotland and beyond. Our volunteers don’t just deliver technology; they build confidence, foster resilience, and create lasting impact. Many of our volunteers return after breaks, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy - a testament to the sense of purpose and community at the heart of the Scottish Tech Army.
Launching the Tech for Good Alliance
A defining milestone in our journey was the launch of the Tech for Good Alliance in 2022. This initiative enabled us to partner with major banks, consultancies, and tech companies, opening the door for corporate volunteers to contribute their expertise and fulfil their social purpose. Through the Alliance, both organisations and individuals gain a meaningful way to “give back,” amplifying our collective impact.
Looking Ahead
Despite the time that has passed since the Scottish Tech Army’s birth, the challenges facing the third sector remain acute. Resource constraints are as real now as they were in 2020 - if not more so. This makes our model - skilled volunteers delivering practical digital solutions - more vital than ever. We continue to learn, adapt, and grow, driven by the belief that technology, when harnessed for good, can be a powerful force for positive change.
Five years on, the Scottish Tech Army stands as a testament to what’s possible when talent, purpose, and community come together. And as we look to the future, our mission remains clear: to be the catalyst for a step change in how technology is used for public good in the UK - and to keep building a movement where everyone can play their part.
