As one of the largest privately held companies in the United States, Mars approaches agricultural research differently than many corporations. Like open-source software, the information its research produces is available for anyone to use or share with no patents or intellectual property rights standing in the way. The company has invested in similar research in cacao and mint, two other crops Mars cannot survive without.
It’s the way Forrest Mars, Sr., the billionaire who invented M&Ms, would have wanted it, Mars scientists say. In 1947 he declared mutuality — the idea that Mars’s success should also benefit others — as one of the company’s five core principles. It still guides the company, which had nearly $50 billion in sales in 2024. And it’s why they are all in on the Wild Peanut Lab.
What do peanuts have to do with computers? Well…
Since the fall of 2022, Mars has donated more than 1,300 retired laptops and desktops to reBOOT Canada, valued at over $200,000 CAD. While seemingly unrelated to Mars’s leadership in food manufacturing, this generous redirection of resources reflects their deep culture of sharing success and lifting others in need.
These donations directly support access to computers, internet, and essential digital skills. By designating IT assets for donation, Mars has helped reBOOT Canada to:
- Enable over 2,000 Canadian families to access reliable refurbished computers for school, employment, and community programs
- Provide over 4 TB of free Wi-Fi data to remote Indigenous communities, priority urban neighbourhoods and community centres across the country
- Create over 4,000 hours of paid work and training for marginalized youth through on-site and remote training programs
All donated devices are managed through:
- Strict data security and sanitization protocols
- Detailed audits
- Testing and valuation capture
- CRA-compliant reporting and tac receipting
Stories of Possibility
Behind every donated laptop is a story of opportunity. Here are just a few voices from individuals whose lives have been changed thanks to Mars’ generosity. These quotes are taken directly from correspondence with program applicants and have only been edited for clarity and spelling.
My kids will benefit from this for online classes, tutoring, and school projects. Instead of always going to the library, it’s wonderful to have one at home.
My son has a range of challenges. This would make life easier for him to attend school and counselling services. It would also help me participate in parenting programs.
A Broader Impact
In addition to directly supporting low-income families and underserved communities, Mars’ contributions have enabled reBOOT Canada to expand our work nationwide — safely diverting retired IT assets from landfills and providing affordable IT services to community organizations.
Thanks to Mars’ continued generosity, more than 2,000 families this year alone have received the technology they need to learn, work, and stay connected. Together, we can build a more connected future for all.
