Technology Matching Fund (TMF) will provide funds of up to $45,000 to qualifying non-profit organizations in Seattle for digital equity projects.
Donor Name: City of Seattle
State: Washington
City: Seattle
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 03/13/2023
Size of the Grant: up to $45,000
Grant Duration: 1 year
Details:
Seattle is working together for digital equity, to ensure all residents and neighborhoods have the information technology capacity needed for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services. They collaborate with education, community, and business partners on intentional strategies and investments to create opportunities and to reduce and eliminate historical barriers to technology access and use.
The Technology Matching Fund program was established in 1997 to support the community’s efforts to close the digital divide and encourage a technology-healthy city. Over $5 million has been awarded since 1998. The fund continues the legacy of Bill Wright, a Central District community leader who embodied the program goals of creating digital equity and opportunities for all, and of using technology tools to engage residents, improve communications and strengthen communities. Bill Wright developed Midtown Commons, one of the early technology access and education centers in Seattle.
Grant Goals
Grants aim to increase internet access and adoption through:
- Digital navigator services: Provide one-on-one or small group, just-in-time assistance via phone, email, text, video chat, and other communication methods to help residents (1) use their devices (computers, laptops, and smartphones), (2) connect to the internet, (3) enroll in the Affordable Connectivity Program, and/or (4) sign up for low-cost internet plans.
- Digital literacy skills training: Provide digital literacy skills training to new technology users.
- Devices and technical support: Provide devices and the support needed to use them effectively.
- Access to the internet: Provide internet to low-income residents by expanding WiFi or another means.
- Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) Outreach and Enrollment: Assist residents to enroll in ACP by informing eligible residents AND providing in-person assistance.
Proposals may include one area of service listed above or a combination of navigator services, skills training, devices, connectivity, and ACP outreach/enrollment. The City will fund projects that collectively address all five Digital Equity Grant Categories.
Funding Information
- A total of $545,000 will be awarded to non-profit organizations and community groups.
- Award amounts up to $45,000.
- A minimum of $90,000 will be allocated to digital navigator projects.
- Projects must be completed within one year or less.
- Required Community Match is 25% of funding request. For example, if you are requesting the maximum grant amount of $45,000, the required Match is $11,250.
Eligible Applicants
- Non-profit organizations
- Neighborhood groups
- Parent-Teacher-Student Associations (PTSA)
- Business groups
- Community-based organizations
SCHOOL-BASED PROJECTS: Applications for school-based projects are eligible but must come from a Parent-Teacher-Student Association or community based organization. The fund will support after-school or evening-based programs. Funds may not be used for in-school projects that do not engage the larger community in a meaningful way.
For more information, visit City of Seattle.
