Superstars in Business Winner: NERDiT NOW

Repurposing with Purpose

BY REGINA DONATO | PHOTOS BY NICK WALLACE PHOTOGRAPHY

IN THE HEART of the East Side of Wilmington, NERDiT NOW is a driving force for the community, empowering individuals, bridging divides, and making a positive impact through its unique blend of tech-centric services and community-oriented initiatives. Founded in 2015 by Markevis Gideon, NERDiT NOW has grown exponentially over the years, introducing innovative repair services like the NERDiT Ambulance and NERDiT Kiosk (both featured on Shark Tank) and workforce development programs through their nonprofit arm, NERDiT CARES.

This is quite a remarkable feat for something that started out as a man in his apartment repairing computers. NERDiT NOW has been able to demonstrate this growth and success through its four guiding principles: empowerment, accessibility, sustainability, and collaboration.

EMPOWERMENT

At the core of NERDiT NOW’s mission lies empowerment. “We believe in empowering individuals by providing them with the skills and resources needed to navigate and excel in the digital world,” elaborates Gideon. NERDiT NOW recognizes that technology is not just a tool but also a gateway for opportunity. By offering affordable technical services and the gateway to a successful career pathway, they empower individuals from all backgrounds to harness the power of the IT field.

NERDiT NOW’s commitment to empowerment extends within its ecosystem. For example, NERDiT CARES, a nonprofit led by Jess Gibson Broenbaugh, facilitates workforce development pathways and device donations. Delaware’s first certified IT Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship Academy enables individuals from disadvantaged communities to pursue successful careers in IT. These programs are designed to provide the skills and certifications necessary for meaningful employment in the tech industry. NERDiT CARES recently cut the ribbon on their new location, which includes the NERDiT CARES Repair Corner, on West Ninth Street in Wilmington.

ACCESSIBILITY

“The mission of NERDiT CARES is simple: we must close the digital divide by creating equitable access to technology devices and offering industry standard technological career training, apprenticeships, and job placement,” says Gideon, highlighting the organization’s dedication to accessibility. The digital divide remains a significant issue in today’s world, and the NERDiT ecosystem is actively working to bridge this gap.

One of their key initiatives is donating IT equipment and infrastructure to underserved communities, schools, and organizations. By refurbishing electronics, they not only extend the lifespan of devices but also provide affordable and reliable technology to those who need it most. Through these efforts, NERDiT NOW is helping individuals access the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.

SUSTAINABILITY

In the pursuit of empowering individuals and communities, NERDiT NOW also remains committed to environmental sustainability. “We promote the responsible use of technology by emphasizing the repair and reuse of IT equipment to reduce waste and environmental impact,” Gideon states. “We really want to highlight the repurposing piece, since so many electronics that are traditionally ‘recycled’ can be used again by someone who needs it.” As Delaware’s only R2 certified electronics recycling company, NERDiT NOW sets a high standard for responsible e-waste management for those pieces that are beyond repair.

Their stringent recycling and refurbishment processes ensure that all materials are handled and disposed of responsibly, preventing environmental degradation caused by improper waste management. By incorporating sustainable practices throughout their operations, NERDiT NOW demonstrates its commitment to protecting the environment and reducing its ecological footprint.

COLLABORATION

Collaboration is the cornerstone of NERDiT NOW’s approach. “We foster partnerships and collaboration with stakeholders to maximize our impact and create a network of support,” says Gideon. The company actively engages in community service efforts, supporting causes related to the environment, underserved communities, and social equality. Through partnerships with local nonprofit organizations and e-waste collection events, NERDiT NOW actively contributes to environmental care. By refurbishing electronics and providing access to affordable technology, they help underserved communities thrive. Additionally, their initiatives for social equality ensure that technology, job opportunities, and skills development are accessible to all.

Gideon leads NERDiT NOW by example in driving the company’s commitment to community service. The company’s massive community impact over the last near-decade has earned them a Superstar in Business award.

“Partnerships, such as the one we share with the Chamber, offer distinctive opportunities for collaboration. We work closely with a wide range of partners in the community, and it is our hope to expand these partnerships to create a more sustainable ecosystem here in Delaware,” says Gideon. “We are deeply honored to be recognized for our achievements. Being a Superstar in Business means not only attaining financial success but also prioritizing sustainability and community impact.”