City of Seattle grants will again be offered to organizations working to close the digital divide
The City of Seattle is opening the 2019 round of applications for the Technology Matching Fund grants. Community organizations and nonprofits are encouraged to apply for grants of up to $50,000 each. Funding will be awarded to projects that work to improve digital literacy, provide affordable devices, and increase access to free or low-cost broadband. These grants are given out annually to uphold the commitment by the City of Seattle as outlined in the Digital Equity Initiative. The goal of the initiative is to improve connectivity, digital skills training, and provide devices, and technology support to communities that might not have equitable access.
“For decades, Seattle has been home to some of the most innovative technology companies anywhere in the world,” said Mayor Jenny A. Durkan, “But the speed of that innovation has meant that some people get left behind. The Seattle IT Technology Matching Fund provides an opportunity for us to address digital inequity and work to close the digital divide. I can’t wait to see what projects the 2019 application cycle will bring.”
Technology Matching Fund awards dollars to projects that work directly with underrepresented communities. These projects should be able to match City funds half to one through volunteer labor hours, materials, professional services, or additional funding. Organizations that have won in previous years are welcome to reapply, as well as new organizations that have not received a grant in previous years.
“It’s been a pleasure helping this program grow and expand year after year,” said Seattle City Council President Bruce Harrell. “Our commitment is part of our dedication to social justice to fund digital literacy classes and see community members have better access to the internet.”
Three workshops are available to guide applicants through the Technology Matching Fund grant process. The workshops are free and will provide an overview of the grant program, explain how to apply, and guide attendees to submitting a successful application. The classes are not required for an application to be submitted, or a grant to be awarded. First time applicants are encouraged to attend one of the three scheduled classes:
Wednesday, February 27: 2 – 3:30 p.m.
2100 Building, 2100 24th Ave South, 98144
Saturday, March 2: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Neighborhood House High Point, 6400 Sylvan Way SW, 98126
Tuesday, March 5: 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Wallingford Senior Center, 4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Suite 140, 98103
Interpretation and accommodations for the meetings are available upon request by calling (206) 233-2751 or emailing communitytechnology@seattle.gov. Technology Matching Fund grant applications are due by March 26. Application materials and more information are available at www.seattle.gov/tech/tmf/.