2023 applications for digital equity grant opportunities from the City of Seattle are now open for organizations and community groups looking to help close the digital divide. This year, the City is offering $545,000 for qualifying projects with Technology Matching Fund (TMF) grants.
TMF grants of up to $45,000 will be awarded, depending on the project needs. The required Community Match is 25% of their funding request with cash, time, or other contributions. Awardees will be notified July 2023. Projects must be completed by August 2024.
“Our vision for One Seattle includes being a leader in digital equity so that every resident has the skills and tools needed to access opportunities in today’s online world,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “The Technology Matching Fund is critical to ensure no one is left behind, investing in community-driven efforts to bridge the digital divide and keep our communities connected.”
TMF projects aim to increase internet access and adoption through digital navigator services, digital literacy skills training, devices and technical support, and access to the internet.
“Every year I’m excited to see what new projects are developed through the possibility of this grant,” said Council Member Sara Nelson, citywide. “The Technology Matching Fund grant gives non-profits the funding they need to further help their communities not fall behind in the technical world we live in. Whether it’s helping to build a resume for a first-time job seeker or teaching a parent how to communicate with their child’s teacher online, these funds provide the critical needs to keep our society moving forward.”
“Each year, the projects selected for the Technology Matching Fund grants provide such innovative and needed support to our communities,” said Jim Loter, Interim Chief Technology Officer. “I’m excited to see how this new cycle of grants opens up windows of opportunities for those who need support in our ever-changing technology-dependent world.”
Applications will be accepted through the City’s FLUXX portal grant system at https://seattle.fluxx.io/. Applicants will need to create an account to apply. To meet with a Digital Equity Program staff member and discuss their application, applicants can submit an optional preliminary application due March 13. Final applications are due by April 17. If you have questions about the application, face any barriers to applying, or need technical assistance, please email communitytechnology@seattle.gov.
Interested applicants can attend online Information Sessions to learn more about the process and ask questions. Links for the virtual meetings are available at www.seattle.gov/digitalequitygrants. Mark your calendars for the date that works best for you:
- Monday, February 27, 12-1 p.m.
- Wednesday, March 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- Friday, April 7, 10-11 a.m.
We will be accepting digital equity grant applications for 2024 funding later this year. Past winners and applicants are eligible to apply for all digital equity grant opportunities.
To learn more about the Technology Matching Fund, visit the City of Seattle Digital Equity Funding Opportunities site. To stay up to date on these grant opportunities and other Seattle Information Technology news, sign up for the Seattle Information Technology newsletter.