Best Tech Giveaways in Richmond, VA: 2026 Local Guide
Richmond readers can borrow hotspots, lower phone bills, and enter a board draw ending Oct. 31.
The verified tech options in the Richmond area for 2026 are library hotspot loans, a federal monthly phone and internet discount, and refurbished computers for veterans, plus one national prize draw. A hotspot is a small portable device that shares mobile internet over Wi-Fi. Most items here are loans, discounts, or a chance to win, not gifts to keep.
Each has age, location, application, or deadline limits noted below.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on October 28, 2026.
Can you borrow internet to take home?
According to Henrico County Public Library, members age 18 and older can check out portable Wi-Fi hotspots for 28 days with no renewal, with holds for pickup at any branch, as described in this Henrico hotspot lending update. The loan is for temporary access, not ownership. Plan work around the fixed 28-day period.
Place a hold early if you need it for job applications, schoolwork, or travel. Return it on time so the next member can borrow it.
Who can lower a phone or internet bill?
According to the Universal Service Administrative Company, federal Lifeline lowers monthly phone, internet, or bundled service by up to $9.25 for qualifying Richmond households, with administration through USAC under FCC oversight and applications through the National Verifier, as explained on the Lifeline program home. It is a monthly discount, not free service. Check whether your household qualifies before contacting a provider.
Use the National Verifier process named by USAC. Keep service in one name and address as instructed.
Where can veterans get a refurbished computer?
According to Tech for Troops in Richmond, veterans, Guard members, transitioning active-duty members, and veteran-serving nonprofits can receive refurbished computers at low or no cost, but must submit a Veteran Improvement Program Laptop Application, including before attending training, as stated on the veteran computer support page. The application is the required first step. Gather service or nonprofit documents before applying.
Submit the laptop application first, then ask about training seats. Expect refurbished stock to vary over time.
What prize draw ends October 31?
According to MakerPro, the Mouser MakerPro Prize Draw ran Oct. 1-31, 2026 for a BeagleBoard BeagleBone AI-64 single-board computer, with entries closing Oct. 31, 2026 under binding sponsor rules, as listed on the BeagleBone AI-64 prize page.
This is a chance to win, not a gift for entering. Read the sponsor rules before entering. Note the closing date, entry limit, and eligibility location.
Enter only once unless the rules allow more.