Project Title:
Meskwaki Broadband Infrastructure
Funding Program:
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program - Round 1
Project Purpose/Type:
The Broadband Infrastructure Deployment project proposes to replace hardware in Tribal homes in order to take advantage of existing fiber. Additionally, the project intends to establish a workforce development program that will train individuals to having a working knowledge of installing and troubleshooting internet fiber.
State(s):
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$424,652.29Funding Amount
The project proposes the following activities designed to improve access to, and use of, broadband services among Tribal members:
- Replace broadband equipment for individual households enabling more robust internet speeds.
- Establish a workforce development program that will work under the supervision of the Meskwaki Broadband team, installing multiple pieces of broadband equipment.
This project will benefit 301 Native American households with an estimated 50% living below the 150% poverty line. This project intends to employ at least 7 Tribal members as part of the project. These positions will comply with the Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance. Tribal members will benefit from more robust internet speeds, enabling telehealth, remote learning, and workforce development opportunities while simultaneously improving broadband use and adoption efforts.
The project intends to benefit the entire Sac and Fox Tribe, diversifying the economy and expanding its revenue base by supporting Tribal members’ small businesses.