Project Title:
The Charlotte's Inclusive Tech-Innovation Pilot
Funding Program:
Connecting Minority Communities Program
Project Purpose/Type:
Johnson C. Smith University's Inclusive Tech-Innovation Pilot endeavors to create a vibrant and connected community that leverages broadband to support economic growth and prosperity within the anchor communities. Through a committed cross-sector consortium of industry, academia, economic development, non-profit, and minority business organizations, this project will increase broadband connectivity, minority business enterprises, access to remote learning and work, digital and technical workforce, and economic mobility.
City/Town/Service Area:
State(s):
-
$5,720,896.00Funding Amount$5,720,896.00Total Project Cost0.00Non-Federal Cost Share
The primary goals for this project are to 1) Increase the digital and technical workforce; 2) Enhance Digital Inclusion and Awareness; 3) Enhance Community Connectivity and Broadband Adoption; 4) Enhance Remote Learning and Work by upgrading the university IT infrastructure; 5) Enhance Employment Outcomes in the anchor community; 6) Strengthen Minority Business Enterprises. Project activities are comprised of bootcamps in analytics; community-based trainings by different partners and collaborators; university-based trainings; and implementation of technology platforms to support learning experiences. The project will provide laptops to students and patrons in the eligible census tracts, enabling remote learning, work, and telehealth participation. The project will upgrade the campus broadband infrastructure University from a 3G to 5G network. The project will also provide working space in the Smith Tech-Innovation Center for minority businesses to operate, develop innovative business models, connect with potential customers/clients, and support business growth with local minority businesses.
The following outcomes are expected as a result of project implementation 1) distribution of devices to students and faculty; 2) distribution of devices to anchor community residents; 3) train people in advanced and high-demand tech skills/careers (e.g., UX design, certifications, data analytics); 4) create a Digital Fellows/Corps for minority business owners and entrepreneurs; and 5) upgrade the campus broadband network.
This project will benefit the students and faculty of Johnson C. Smith University directly with network upgrades and laptop distribution. This project will also support growth in the anchor community of Charlotte, North Carolina among residents, local businesses and MBE's.
The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.
The applicant does fund a consortium. The applicant’s activities do occur in the surrounding anchor communities. Details of community involvement are described below.