Apparently I’m all about open data and open government today. Partially because I’m in Ireland – land of the apps. There’s an app for everything here – the buses, most businesses, St Patrick’s Day events… I think apps are bigger here because the use of cell phone (mobiles) has been greater longer.
Anyway – apparently there’s funding to promote and support open government, which I always read as open data. I think the best way to promote open data is to make is usable to the widest group of people and to me that means apps – like the ones I’m using in Ireland, like the ones I’ve seen created as various hackfests. More people appreciate open data when they can use it. This funding is for federal projects – so maybe this is an opportunity to take a local project and make it bigger. Or maybe this is an opportunity to think differently. I’d love to see an app that tracks broadband availability and speeds – seems like that data ought to be available via the FCC (From 702?).
Here’s more info on the opportunity – clearly I’ve spun it a bit, but not out of shape. It could also be an opportunity to digitize government info, which would be a first step to making is more app-able…
OpenTheGovernment.org is announcing to our partners in the coalition the availability of funds for projects to further work on our community’s Open Government Partnership (OGP) policy priorities to promote reform of government policy and practice toward greater openness and accountability.
Since 2011, more than 20 national organizations committed to improving openness and accountability have worked together to identify policy priorities for improving and strengthening federal government openness. We have identified four as areas where there is a real possibility of improvements in the 12 to 15 months.
- Proactive Dissemination of All Government Information
- Improving Freedom of Information Act Processing and Disclosure
- Transformation of the National Security Classification Process
- Increased Disclosure of Government Spending
These priorities are reflected in the commitments made by the Obama Administration in the 2nd National Action Plan for its participation in the Open Government Partnership. (“OGP”) The Plan includes commitments to: modernize the freedom of information act; transform the security classification system; increase transparency of foreign intelligence surveillance activities; strengthen and expand whistleblower protections for government personnel; increase transparency in spending; and support and improve agency implementation of open government plans, including new measures on proactive disclosures.
Our intent in funding these projects is to strengthen our community’s contributions to the OGP process, develop new or better approaches for the work of government, and give new ideas and information to the government for its ongoing OGP efforts. It is strongly urged that any proposed activity be accomplished in coordination with other civil society organizations.
The initial application process is open until 26 March 2014. A committee made up of OTG partners will review all applications and make recommendations to the full Steering Committee at its upcoming 16 April meeting.
Applications (see attached document) should be sent to Amy Bennett abennett@openthegovernment.org
We look forward to hearing from you.