In today’s fast-paced technological world, sustainability and social impact are more critical than ever. Companies that innovate while giving back to their communities set themselves apart as true leaders. One such company, Electronic Responsible Recyclers (ER2), is making waves in the sustainable IT industry by seamlessly merging technology, service, and community upliftment.
Recently, ER2 was honored with the FedEx Champion of Global Entrepreneurship award, a prestigious recognition given to one company on the Inner City 100 (IC100) list, which highlights the fastest-growing businesses in under-resourced communities. This award celebrates ER2’s exceptional ability to drive innovation, sustainability, and social impact on a global scale—qualities that define the future of responsible business.
Empowering Communities Through Technology
Founded by Chris Ko, ER2 is not just another IT asset management company. While it specializes in helping large enterprises manage their IT hardware lifecycle, its mission extends far beyond corporate services. ER2’s true impact lies in its commitment to extending the life of technology and making it accessible to underserved communities.
As Chris Ko explains:
"We recycle IT hardware and donate it to underprivileged families, students, and veterans all across the world."
Through refurbishment and redistribution, ER2 ensures that technology reaches the hands of those who need it most. This approach supports sustainability by reducing electronic waste (e-waste) while simultaneously bridging the digital divide—a growing global concern.
A Global Footprint with Local Impact
ER2’s commitment to making a difference is evident in both its local and global outreach initiatives.
1. International Impact
ER2 partners with some of the world’s largest Fortune 100 companies, ensuring that its services extend beyond U.S. borders into regions like:
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- India
- South America
- Africa
One standout example of ER2’s global impact is its donation of 2,000 keyboards to a school in Africa. For many students, this was their first opportunity to experience hands-on typing—a simple yet life-changing moment that underscores ER2’s mission to empower individuals through technology.
Chris Ko captures the essence of this initiative:
“These are the little things we can do to empower others to transform their lives by investing in themselves and embracing technology that once felt out of reach.”
2. Local Impact in the U.S.
Closer to home, ER2 makes a powerful impact by donating approximately 1,000 laptops annually to organizations like Nashville’s Anywhere Access for All. This initiative helps:
- Underserved communities gain access to technology
- Elderly residents receive training on digital literacy
- Students continue their education without technological barriers
According to Jenny Robertson, Senior Vice President of Global Brand and Communications at FedEx:
“Small businesses are critical to the success of FedEx—not only as customers, but as suppliers and vendors as well. Our collaboration with ICIC furthers our goals to empower entrepreneurs by supporting programming for small business owners from under-resourced communities.”
ER2’s work is a testament to the power of business-driven social change—showing that profitability and purpose can coexist.
A Culture Built on Service and Humility
While ER2’s technology initiatives are impressive, what truly sets the company apart is its corporate culture. Rooted in the values of servanthood, humility, excellence, and continuous improvement, ER2 fosters an environment of camaraderie and personal growth.
As Ko explains:
“We started our organization trying to create a place where people feel actually real, valued, cared for, embraced, and loved exactly as they are.”
This positive workplace culture extends beyond ER2’s internal team to its clients, partners, and beneficiaries. According to Rocky Jackson, a key ER2 team member:
“The people are the most unique asset that we have here…This is absolutely a place that most of our team members love coming into in the mornings.”
ER2’s inclusive and people-first approach is a driving force behind its sustained growth and global recognition.
Collaboration: The Key to Lasting Change
A major reason for ER2’s success is its collaborative spirit. Ko, an alumnus of the ICIC (Initiative for a Competitive Inner City) program, acknowledges the importance of sharing knowledge and resources.
“In this type of network, we’re able to bounce ideas off of each other, overcome obstacles, and provide insights to promote people doing similar things in different ways.”
This spirit of unity aligns with FedEx’s broader mission. Robertson highlights:
“FedEx is committed to making a meaningful difference in communities by promoting positive change.”
By fostering strong partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, and international organizations, ER2 is setting an example for other companies looking to merge sustainability with social impact.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for ER2?
With the FedEx Champion of Global Entrepreneurship award under its belt, ER2 is poised for even greater impact in the coming years.
- Expanding Global Partnerships – Strengthening collaborations with Fortune 100 companies and global NGOs
- Scaling Up Donations – Increasing laptop and hardware donations to schools, veterans, and underserved communities
- Promoting Sustainable IT Practices – Encouraging more businesses to adopt eco-friendly IT asset management solutions
- Investing in People – Continuing to build a work culture that emphasizes service, humility, and excellence
As Ko puts it:
“Everyone in our company knows our vision, mission, and values. It’s something we absolutely constantly stay focused on because we don’t ever want to lose sight of why we’re doing what we’re doing and the impact that we can have.”
ER2’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that businesses can be a force for good—creating profitable, scalable models while driving positive change for people and the planet.
Final Thoughts: A Call to Action for Businesses
ER2’s story offers an inspiring blueprint for other companies looking to integrate sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility.
Key Takeaways for Businesses:
- Think beyond profits – Long-term success comes from creating value for both customers and communities.
- Leverage technology for good – Digital inclusion is key to economic empowerment and social mobility.
- Prioritize sustainability – Responsible recycling and IT asset management reduce e-waste and environmental harm.
- Foster a mission-driven culture – Employees thrive in workplaces that value people over profits.
At AmazingHour.com, we celebrate companies like ER2 that redefine what it means to do business responsibly. Their work is proof that entrepreneurship, when done right, can be a transformative force in society.
What do you think about ER2’s approach to sustainability and social impact? Are there businesses in your community making a difference?
Let’s continue the conversation in the comments!
Thank you for reading!
