I’ve been debating about how much to look into the specific broadband stimulus grants applications from Minnesota. I’ve decided that if it crosses my desk, I’ll post it. (So if you know more about an application and want me to post info – please send it my way.)
Here’s more info on the University of Minnesota/Ethnic Media proposal. Here’s the description from the NTIA:
| Applicant | Regents of the University of Minnesota |
| Minneapolis, MN | |
| Contact | Kevin McKoskey |
| 612-624-5599 | |
| Project title | Broadband Access Project |
| Program | BTOP |
| Project type | Public Computer Center |
| Grant request | $ 2,862,334 |
| Status | Received |
| Description | The Broadband Access Project will eliminate directly the disparity in broadband awareness and use in four federally designated poverty zones in the Twin Cities. The University of Minnesota will provide broadband training to vulnerable populations to gain information about education, health care, and job opportunities. Increased broadband access and usage, and job creation will result in these areas |
The Liberian Journal wrote more about the partnership. The partners include the Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center (UROC) and the Office for Business and Community Economic Development (BCED) and the Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC)They propose development and improvement of 11 computer labs throughout underserved neighborhoods in the Twin Cities. They predict that the project will create 36 new jobs and save 12 existing jobs. The project also would provide Internet computer training for almost 17,000 individuals who rely on public community-based computer centers.
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