The charity's roots can be traced back to the Sefton Neighbourhood Initiative Project (SNIP). Working out of a school classroom in a disadvantaged area of Merseyside with just one member of staff, SNIP initially provided print and design services to local community groups. It eventually expanded its range of services to include computer training for the VCFS. In 2000 SNIP received Single Regeneration Budget funding that provided the catalyst for the organisations main period of growth. The charity moved to 16 Crosby Road North, now known as 3tc House, and formed Merseyside Third Sector Technology Centre or 3tc for short. 3tc is a registered charity (number 1003218) and company limited by guarantee (number 2528172).