GRAND RAPIDS, Minn (May 6, 2014) – Blandin Foundation announced today that it has awarded six grants totaling $147,750 that assist rural Minnesota communities in advancing high-speed Internet access and use in their communities.
Headwaters Regional Development Commission (HRDC) will complete an action plan for developing community technology/telework centers in the Headwaters region, with support of a $10,000 Blandin Foundation grant. These physical spaces will provide freelancers, entrepreneurs, telecommuters, and community members with shared access to secure broadband, video conferencing equipment, meeting space and resources like printers and fax machines.
“Technologies like broadband Internet and video conferencing have opened doors for rural communities to thrive in the 21st Century economy,” said Ryan Zemek, HRDC Economic Development Director. “In the past, many companies simply couldn’t locate in rural areas. Technology-based jobs are a perfect solution for rural communities that have struggled to keep pace with the more prosperous metro areas. The HRDC is excited to work on leveraging these opportunities to grow the economy of Northern Minnesota.”
The HRDC planning process will include a market analysis, case study analysis, assessment of operational options and potential funding sources.
“Rural leaders know that connected communities are vibrant communities,” said Dr. Kathleen Annette, CEO of Blandin Foundation. “We are delighted to see how Headwaters Regional Development Commission is engaging those they serve to improve the environment for technology-related businesses, entrepreneurship and employment made possible by high-speed Internet.”
Since making rural broadband use and access a focus in 2003, Blandin Foundation has partnered with leaders in more than 60 communities and 80 organizations across the state to support sustainable broadband adoption to enhance quality of life and place.