Category Archives: Opportunities

OPPORTUNITY: Unleash the Good(R) Grant: A Web Design Initiative by ArcStone – deadline May 31

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A little bit off topic but, ArcStone is a Minnesota company, and I know many readers have a connection to a nonprofit organization, and I’m just one day off Earth Day – so here’s info on a grant for website development. Good luck!

ArcStone partners with nonprofit organizations and thoughtful brands to drive missions forward. As a demonstration of our commitment to growing the impact of organizations that care, we are proud to launch the Unleash the Good Grant program.

Through this grant, we aim to support nonprofit organizations to enhance their online presence and achieve their mission through strategic web development services.

Our current grant cycle is open to 501(c)3 tax-exempt organizations dedicated to protecting, preserving, and improving the Earth’s natural environment.

Stay tuned for our Fall grant cycle, exclusively dedicated to social impact organizations making a meaningful and sustainable difference in people’s lives and society.

This in-kind grant provides services valued at $15,000 to selected organizations to empower them to create a compelling and impactful online platform.

 

Eligible Organizations

To be eligible for the Unleash the Good Grant, organizations must meet the following criteria:

  • 501(c)3 Status: The organization holds a valid 501(c)3 tax-exempt status under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code.
  • Environmental Impact: The organization actively works to protect, preserve, and improve the Earth’s natural environment.
  • Web Design Needs: The organization has a clear vision of how web design services will enhance its online presence and further its mission.
  • Agreement to Grant Terms: The organization agrees to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the grant application.

Services Included

The grant project includes the following web development services:

  • Website Discovery and Sitemap
  • Accessible and Inclusive Design
  • WordPress Development
  • SEO Basics for Key Pages
  • Limited Content Entry
  • Project Management, Quality Assurance, Training, and Launch
  • One year of free hosting

Application Process & Timeline

Application Submission: Eligible organizations are invited to submit their applications through our online application form below.

Review and Evaluation: Applications will be thoroughly reviewed, and organizations will be evaluated based on alignment with our mission, potential impact, and demonstrated need for web design services.

Selection: One organization will receive the $15,000 Unleash the Good Grant. Additionally, two organizations will be selected to receive $5,000 off the $15,000 web design package outlined above.

Timeline: The application period is currently open, and the deadline to apply is May 31, 2024 at 11:59 PM CST. All applicants will receive a decision via email by June 18th. Work on the project will begin in July. Grant recipients must submit a final report by August 31, 2025.

Please contact Dan Olson at dolson@arcstone.com with any additional questions.

Please fill out the form to be notified of future grant opportunities.

OPPORTUNITY: Broadband Planning Help Hub

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The Broadband Planning Help Hub is a free resource created to help communities…

LISC’s Broadband Planning Help Hub, part of the National Broadband Technical Assistance Marketplace, connects communities like yours with high-quality, targeted data and recommendations to produce investment-ready broadband plans.

Congressional action following the pandemic created a once-in-a-generation level of funding to close the digital divide across America. Affordable, reliable, high-speed internet access stimulates economic growth, lowers health care costs, improves access to education and strengthens community ties to needed services – making it a necessity, not a luxury, that should be accessible to all.

They have an opportunity for communities to apply for help…

Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis from any community-facing entity leading local efforts around broadband. Questions from prospective applicants can be sent to broadbandhelp@lisc.org.

OPPORTUNITY: ICANN grants to expand broadband Deadline May 24

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PRNewswire reports…

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the nonprofit organization that coordinates the Domain Name System (DNS), announced today that the application window for the first cycle of the ICANN Grant Program is officially open. This initial phase of the global program will include the distribution of up to $10 million in funding to develop selected projects that support the growth of an open, resilient, and globally interoperable Internet.

The World Economic Forum estimates that 70% of new value created in the economy over the next decade will be based on digital platform business models. However, 3.2 billion people are unable to access the Internet, meaning that nearly one-third of the world cannot access the benefits of these transformational platforms. The ICANN Grant Program seeks to fund creative and innovative solutions that support ICANN’s mission. It will consider projects that will advance innovation and open standards for the benefit of the Internet community; benefit the development, distribution and evolution of the services and systems that support the Internet’s unique identifier systems; and contribute to diversity, participation, and inclusion across stakeholder communities and geographic regions.

“From banking and health to e-commerce and transport, the Internet has become indispensable to our daily lives,” said Sally Costerton, Interim President and CEO, ICANN. “But there are still far too many people, particularly in less developed countries, who remain offline or who face barriers that prevent them from fully experiencing the benefits that the Internet can bring. Through the ICANN Grant Program we will support ideas that advance the evolution and innovation of the Internet’s unique identifier systems for the benefit of a growing, more inclusive Internet community.”

The application window will remain open until 24 May 2024 and the tentative timeline to announce the grantees of the first cycle is in January of 2025.

For more information on the program, including eligibility and submission requirements, the ICANN Grant Program Applicant Guide is available at https://icann.org/grant-program.

OPPORTUNITY: Opening in Minnesota Cybersecurity Task Force

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The Minnesota Secretary of State reports on an opportunity that might interest some readers…

Minnesota Cybersecurity Task Force
Membership requirements are based on and conform to Public Law 117-58. In summary:

  • The Chief Information Officer (CIO), the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), or equivalent official of the eligible entity;
  • If the eligible entity is a state (including territories), then representatives from counties, cities, and towns within the jurisdiction of the eligible entity;
  • Institutions of public education and health within the jurisdiction of the eligible entity; and
  • As appropriate, representatives of rural, suburban, and high-population jurisdictions.
  • At least one half of the representatives of the Cybersecurity Planning Committee must have professional experience relating to cybersecurity or information technology

The task force will additionally invite close participation in its decisions from members of the legislature. Four ex officio participants are invited for formal designation by the leaders in the Minnesota Senate and Minnesota House of Representatives.

EVENT April 20: 2024 GigaZone Gaming Championship Announces More Gaming Tournaments

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Unless you count Wordle, I’m not much of a gamer, but I love the idea of the GigaZone Gaming Tourney to showcase broadband in the area, promote tech employment and just have fun. I’m happy to share all of the updates…

The 2024 GigaZone Gaming Championship and TechXpo is Saturday, April 20 at the Sanford Center in Bemidji with special guest Danielle Feinberg from Pixar Animation Studios. The event features free admission and free gaming on various console and arcade games, numerous tournaments, door prizes, and more.
This year’s GigaZone Gaming Championship is bigger than ever before with over a dozen tournaments including:
Rocket League- Main Stage
The main stage tournament on the esports stadium style stage in the GigaZone Championship Arena.
3-person team competition with 32 team maximum.
$900 per team for 1st, $600 per team for 2nd, $300 per team for 3rd.
Fortnite
This is a Zero-Build Solos leaderboard tournament. The player with the highest number of kills wins at the end of the day.
$400 for 1st place, $300 for 2nd, $200 for 3rd, $100 for 4th
Madden24
Individual competition with 32 person maximum.
$400 for 1st place, $300 for 2nd, $200 for 3rd, $100 for 4th
Overwatch 2
3-person team competition with 32 team maximum
$600 per team for 1st, $300 per team for 2nd, $150 per team for 3rd.
Valorant
3 person team competition with 12 team maximum
$600 per team for 1st, $300 per team for 2nd, $150 per team for 3rd.
Super Smash Bros Ultimate
Individual competition with 64 person maximum
1st Place $300, 2nd Place $200, 3rd Place $100, 4th Place $50
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Individual competition with 64 person maximum
1st Place $300, 2nd Place $200, 3rd Place $100, 4th Place $50
Super Smash Bros Ultimate- Junior Tournament (Kids under 14)
Individual competition with 32 person maximum
1st Place $200, 2nd Place $150, 3rd Place $100, 4th Place $50
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe- Junior Tournament (Kids under 14)
Individual competition with 64 person maximum
1st Place $200, 2nd Place $150, 3rd Place $100, 4th Place $50
Magic The Gathering Booster Drafts
“Free to you” Outlaws of Thunder Junction Drafts at approximately 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. 64 person maximum
Retro Arcade Tournaments
Ms Pac-Man, Galaga, and Donkey Kong. High score on each wins $100 gift card
Bemidji Drift- Paul Bunyan Communications Van Racing Tournament
1 morning and 1 afternoon session 14+ and Juniors under 14. Top score of each session wins $100.
Cosplay Contest
One contest for ages 14+, one contest for juniors under 14.
Adults- 1st Place- $300 gift card 2nd Place $200 gift card 3rd Place $100 gift card
Juniors- 1st Place- $100 gift card 2nd Place $75 gift card 3rd Place $50 gift card
All the tournaments and contests are FREE to enter but all those who want to enter a tournament will need to create a GigaZone Gaming Player Profile prior to registration at the event. This can be done online at http://www.gigazonegaming.com This will expedite the onsite registration process to allow the tournaments to start earlier.
Registration for all tournaments will start at the Sanford Center April 20 at 10 a.m. and go until full. Special Guest Danielle Feinberg from Pixar Animation Studios will be on the main stage at 2 p.m.
The GigaZone TechXpo will expose a growing regional audience to technology innovation and help them turn their technical skills and enthusiasm into successful careers right here northern Minnesota. Start-ups and companies creatively leveraging technology will be able to demonstrate their innovation to a large group of tech-savvy potential employees. Educators and educational institutions can have their tech-oriented students show off projects and promote the technology training programs they have to offer.
This Paul Bunyan Communications event includes the talents of many local partners including NLFX, Accidentally Cool Games, Northern Amusement, the Sanford Center, as well as support from several regional and national partners.

OPPORTUNITY: 2024 MN Cup: Calling all entrepreneurs!

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An invitation from the MN Secretary of State…

The Secretary of State’s office wanted to let you know about a great opportunity for Minnesota entrepreneurs, researchers, inventors, and small business owners. It’s called MN Cup, it’s organized by the University of Minnesota, and it’s available to any Minnesota-based company with less than $1 million in annual revenue.

MN Cup has become a great first step for launching a new business, offering free education, mentorship, promotional opportunities, and seed funding for those that advance. The competition is free to enter, and participants have until Friday, April 12, 2024 to submit their application.

Click here to start your application

Click here to learn more about MN Cup and their resources

EVENT Mar 28: Community Digital Equity Fair St Paul MN

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An invitation from Literacy Minnesota…

When: March 28th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: 553 Fairview Ave N, Saint Paul, MN 55104

Learn about Comcast’s Internet Essentials program and technology services local organizations are offering. Enjoy free snacks and the chance to win prizes, including a new Chromebook!

OPPORTUNITY: Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Rural eConnectivity Program for Fiscal Year 2024

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According to the Federal Register…

The Rural Utilities Service (RUS, Agency), a Rural Development (RD) agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), announces acceptance of applications under the Rural eConnectivity (ReConnect) program for fiscal year (FY) 2024. These loan and grant funds will be awarded to qualified applicants to fund the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service.

Beginning on March 22, 2024, applications can be submitted through the RUS on-line application portal until 11:59 a.m. Eastern on April 22, 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

OPPORTUNITY: Library Freedom Institute for building digital equity skills

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As a former librarian, I love to see the digital equity opportunities happening because of or inspired by the federal digital equity money. The Library Freedom Institute trains folks to be privacy mavens, which in the age of checking, phishing and AI is increasingly more important. The deadline to apply is March 18…

Library Freedom Institute is a privacy-focused 6-month virtual training for librarians. This curriculum will give them the tools they need to become privacy champions in their libraries.

Once-a-month, we’ll provide a 2-hour training that covers a variety of topics. Throughout the course, each participant will spend 1-2 hours a week asynchronously working on a project to be shared with the LFP community.

LFI is made possible with generous support from the Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment.

OPPORTUNITY: MN Association of Townships Scholarship

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The Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) is offering a township scholarship program for high school Juniors in the state of Minnesota. Up to Five $2,000 scholarships will be awarded. The application process involves writing an essay. While, I’m always happy to share opportunities, it’s the essay topic that caught my eye…

2024 Essay Topic:

Throughout its history the United States has adopted policies which took advantage of major technological advances that led to prosperity as a nation. In the 19th century it was the development of canals and a national railroad system. In the 20th century it was rural electrification and the national highway system. Today, high speed broadband Internet access is as vital as phones, electricity, and roads. Those without this access, particularly people in rural areas, are left stranded on the wrong side of the digital divide.

Describe ways in which broadband Internet access improves the lives of rural residents. What challenges exist in providing broadband Internet in rural areas? And what policies should governments at all levels, (federal, state, and local) adopt to ensure that regardless of geographic location all Americans have equal access to broad band Internet?

Check the next tab, “Eligibility & Requirements,” for how to enter.

2024 Application Form

OPPORTUNITY: Nominations for the 2024 Intelligent Community Awards due Feb 15

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Maybe we could flood the Intelligent Community ballot box with awesome Minnesota communities…

The Intelligent Community Awards Program® honors the achievements of Intelligent Communities in creating dynamic, prosperous and inclusive economies that strengthen social connections and support rich and meaningful cultures. These are the things that make a community of any size a great place to live, work, start a business, build a career, raise a family and prepare a way for the next generation.

How to Nominate Your Community

You are welcome to submit a nomination at any time. See the Smart21 Events page for the next closing date. Start your nomination →

The Value of the Awards

The annual Award program focuses local, regional and international attention on achievements and progress that too often goes unnoticed in communities, especially in small-to-midsize ones that are seldom in the news. For residents and employers, it shows the community in a new light on a global stage, and motivates greater participation in programs.

Reminder: Today is the last day to sign up for Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

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The FCC reminds us that today is the last day for households to sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program (federal broadband assistance)…

In this Public Notice, the Wireline Competition Bureau (Bureau) reminds providers, eligible households, and all other Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stakeholders of the upcoming enrollment freeze beginning Thursday, February 8, 2024. To receive the ACP benefit, eligible households must be enrolled in the program by February 7, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET.1 The ACP is the largest and most successful broadband affordability program in our nation’s history and helps more than 23 million low-income households, across rural, suburban, and urban America obtain the internet service they need to access health care, work, educational opportunities, and more. Even with news of the program’s projected end in around April 2024, the ACP has remained popular as more households continued to enroll in the program each month.

The ACP funding appropriated by Congress is finite and, without additional appropriated funding, April 2024 is currently projected to be the last month for which the ACP can fully reimburse providers for the benefits passed through to enrolled households.2 To manage the end of the ACP, the Bureau announced the need to stop new enrollments on February 8, 2024 to ensure an orderly transition and to preserve the remaining ACP funding.3 Concurrent with the last day of ACP enrollments, the Bureau and USAC will also stop reviewing new provider applications and election notices on February 7, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET.4

Eligible low-income households that wish to enroll in the ACP must have a qualified application and enroll in the program with their preferred provider by February 7, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET.5 At the start of the enrollment freeze, both the paper and electronic ACP applications will be removed and no longer accessible.6 All ACP households enrolled at the time of the enrollment freeze will be able to remain enrolled and participate pursuant to program rules through the final month of ACP service.7

Everything you need to know about the Affordable Connectivity Program Transition

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The NDIA (National Digital Inclusion Alliance) has created a webpage that is tracking the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) transition. I wanted to share it for anyone who needs the information for themselves or their clients or patrons. The big flag today is the last day to sign up for ACP – February 7. There are many pieces of the process that seem in flux or might change but I suspect folks who are in the system by February 7 will be in better shape than those who aren’t.

OPPORTUNITY: FCC seeks public comment on broadband data collection challenge process

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The FCC is seeking public comment on broadband data collection challenge process…

Comment Date: February 19, 2024

Reply Comment Date: March 5, 2024

 By this Public Notice, the Broadband Data Task Force, in coordination with the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau (WTB), Wireline Competition Bureau, and Office of Economics and Analytics (OEA) (collectively BDTF), seeks public comment on its Broadband Data Collection (BDC) challenge processes.  The BDC is the most granular, detailed collection of broadband availability data the FCC has ever gathered or released, depicting location-level information on mass-market fixed broadband internet access services available across the United States as well as standardized coverage maps of 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile wireless services.  Importantly, the BDC—for the first time ever—also provides opportunities for consumers, State, local, and Tribal governmental entities, and other stakeholders to challenge the coverage and broadband availability information reported to the FCC and depicted in the new maps.

Pursuant to section 802(b)(5)(D) of the Communications Act, as amended by Pub. L. No. 116-130, the Commission is required to submit a report to Congress that evaluates the challenge processes and considers whether the Commission should commence an inquiry on the need for other tools to help identify potential inaccuracies in BDC data and improve the accuracy of those data.[1]  Comments received in response to this Public Notice will inform this report.  To this end, we request input on the extent to which stakeholders are participating in the challenge processes, whether they find the challenge processes to be “user-friendly”, and, if not, what improvements the Commission can make to its processes to make participation more user-friendly, and the effectiveness of the challenge processes in improving the quality and accuracy of our broadband availability data.

[1] See 47 U.S.C. § 642(b)(5)(D);  Broadband Deployment Accuracy and Technological Availability Act, Pub. L. No. 116-130, 134 Stat. 228 (2020) (codified at 47 U.S.C. §§ 641-646) (Broadband DATA Act or BDA), 47 U.S.C. § 642(a)(1)(A).  The report must be submitted to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce.  47 U.S.C. § 642(b)(5)(D).

OPPORTUNITY: Digital Training for Nonprofits

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From the Rural Roundup newsletter…

BRIDGE Digital Training Program 

Apply
(NOTE: The application may have a December deadline listed, but it remains open.)
Small nonprofits looking to expand their impact and reach online are encouraged to apply to apply for the upcoming BRIDGE digital training program, generously funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. As a current Gates Foundation partner, we are extending this exclusive opportunity for organizations in our networks to apply free of charge.
BRIDGE is an intensive capacity building program designed by the technology company Lightful to equip organizations like yours with the digital skills, knowledge, and confidence to expand your reach and increase your impact online. The program will consist of three phases, each with a cohort of 15 organizations. We encourage you to apply even if phase 1 is full, as you will be considered for future phases if not selected for the current one. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Learn more here or, alternatively, you can contact the Lightful team at support@lightful.com.