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Code the Dream

At Code the Dream, we envision a world in which tech innovation comes from all of us and benefits all of us.

About Code the Dream

Transforming tech and transforming lives.
Mission & Vision
Impact
Programs
Values
Awards
Reports

Tech has changed our world, but the tech industry hasn’t reflected — or benefited — everyone.

We’re on a mission to fix this.

Our goal is to build technology that addresses urgent but overlooked problems while opening the doors to life-changing opportunities through real-world experience.

CTD’s ultimate aim is to create a unique win-win: our coders gain real experience building apps that make the world a better place, then use that experience to launch new careers with life-changing opportunities for themselves, their families, and their communities.

At Code the Dream, we transform the face of tech and change lives through:

  • Free, intensive coding education
  • Paid apprenticeships
  • Impact technology

Our Mission

Code the Dream creates opportunity that changes lives, builds technology that benefits our communities, and expands access to the skills we need for a more innovative world.

Our Vision

Code the Dream envisions a world in which tech innovation comes from all of us and benefits all of us.

Our Results

Nearly 2,500 students have taken classes at Code the Dream.
Average starting salary after CTD apprenticeship
More than 80% of apprentices become software developers.
More than 250,000 individuals directly reached by CTD-built tools in 2025
CTD-built tools delivered $83 million in benefits to users in 2025
CTD-built impact technology served 202 partners—agencies, nonprofits, community groups, and more—in 2025

Dual Impact

Opening Opportunity

$730M+

Cumulative lifetime earnings unlocked for apprentices

50x ROI

Every $1 invested in CTD generates nearly $50 in participant earnings

Innovating for Unmet Needs

300,000+

All-time number of people reached directly by CTD-built technology

$272M

Estimated cumulative benefits delivered to users of CTD-built technology

Two Programs, One Goal: Expanding Opportunity

CTD Learns

Our free, remote, part-time code school provides intensive education in web development and data engineering for adult learners. Students who would otherwise be unable to access high-level courses like CTD’s are career-ready in about one year.

CTD Labs

Our cutting-edge impact technology supports farmworker outreach, public benefits access, and more. Our tools have reached over 300,000 people and are built by senior developers and CTD Learns alumni participating in our Registered Apprenticeship.

Our Values

How we do our work is as important as why we do our work; all of our programming is firmly grounded in our values. These values inform our work and describe what we strive for within our organization, in the tech industry, and in society as a whole. 

Inclusion

Equity is possible when everyone is able to contribute to their fullest potential, which only happens when we value diverse voices and lived experiences.

Community

A welcoming and supportive environment creates a sense of belonging where each person feels empowered to be their authentic self.

Growth

Innovation is fostered when we cultivate curiosity, engage in continuous learning and encourage improvement through iteration.

Impact

Meaningful change happens when we create equitable opportunities for individuals and also address systemic challenges in our world.

Awards & Recognition

Code the Dream has been recognized for our model and impact with awards including:

We’ve also been featured in media outlets, including:

View our annual reports and 990s

Reports & Financials