Launch of $250,000 Digital Inclusion Fund to Bridge Digital Divide in KC Area
Kansas City area has taken a significant leap forward in its relentless fight against the digital divide through the launch of the Digital Inclusion Fund. After years of dedicated efforts to bring families and individuals online, some gaps still exist that disconnect many local residents from the essential digital resources they need to succeed in an increasingly digitized world.
On June 3rd, a rejuvenated funding initiative is set to start accepting applications from public charities, schools, and churches. These entities will have access to a $250,000 digital equity fund that aims to support their work. Individuals and organizations can apply via the KC Digital Inclusion Fund website at kcdif.org.”
A Strong Commitment towards Enhancing Digital Capacity in KC
“Our goal is to enhance the digital capacity in the region and provide resources necessary to create a robust digital inclusion ecosystem” said Aaron Deacon, General Manager of KC Digital Drive, the organization spearheading this fund. “The funds serve as a channel for digital equity and act as a catalyst, multiplying the impact of direct service organizations that assist their communities with digital engagement.”
A consortium of funders have shown their commitment to the cause, with agreements for multi-year support for the grant initiative. The Digital Inclusion Fund will distribute these funds in three rounds to cater to an array of needs in the KC area. The first round will provide grants for computer hardware on June 3. The following round, starting August 1, will focus on IT support, and the final round related to digital literacy classes will be initiated on October 1.
The Importance of Boosting Digital Infrastructure in Communities
“This initiative revolves around uplifting the digital infrastructure within our communities,” Adriana Pecina, a member of the fund’s Advisory Council expressed. Pecina is an impact strategist at the Health Forward Foundation and is keen to see the benefits of the fund reach grass-roots community organizations.
Applications for the grants can be made online at kcdif.org. The KC Digital Drive will also offer additional support to applicants in the form of office hours and one-on-one assistance during each grant cycle, further providing grantees with technical support, evaluation, and reporting help.
Following a comprehensive analysis of recent digital landscape developments, KC Digital Drive has relaunched the fund that was originally established in 2013. The refreshed fund aims to device a systemic strategy to address program gaps, demonstrate community commitment, and attract new local funding to enhance Kansas City’s competitiveness for state and federal damage.
Continuous Strive Towards Combating the Digital Divide
The determination of Kansas City to tackle the digital divide head-on is commendable. With the help of the Digital Inclusion Fund, more individuals and organizations will benefit from the crucial elements that contribute to full digital inclusion. It is anticipated that this reinvigorated mission to promote digital equity will make a significant difference in the lives of many Kansas City residents.
