MAINE, USA — The Maine Connectivity Authority is an organization that has been working to improve access to reliable and affordable internet services around that state, as well as making sure people have access to modern technology.
Under the bipartisan infrastructure law, the "Internet for All" initiative allocated $5.7 million to the MCA.
"This particular funding will support all of the programs and organizations that will help us really maximize our investment in broadband infrastructure around the state," Maggie Drummind-Bahl, MCA Senior Director of Digital Equity & Partnerships, says.
She says the money will be used in three ways.
The first is to launch a program in January 2025 called the "Digital Opportunity Networks Grants."
"This program will support the organizations and agencies that are working with folks around the state to make sure that they have the digital skills they need, the confidence to do the things they'd like to do online, the devices to do those things, the education about internet safety, and, of course, technical support," Drummond-Bahl said.
The second thing the money will be used for is to launch a statewide campaign encouraging businesses and organizations to donate devices like computers and tablets. They will then be refurbished and given to people who could use them.
The third thing is building awareness around a new online tool called, Tech Help for ME.
"That tool is designed to make sure that no matter where you are in Maine or who you are, you can find a resource or an organization or a program for whatever your particular need is," Drummond-Bahl said.
Drummond-Bahl says getting more Mainers connected to resources at their fingertips is crucial.
"It's folks who live in rural areas, it's veterans, it's low-income households, older adults, and really 89 percent of the population in Maine is representative of one or more of those covered populations," Drummond-Bahl said.
Adding that there are people who have technology all around them, but can't access it.
"We need to make sure that everybody in Maine, individuals, communities, businesses, institutions can get the full impact from those connections," Drummond-Bahl said. "That will help us have better health outcomes. It will help Maine people and communities thrive in their businesses and in their jobs."
Drummond-Bahl says the initial round of funding is for a five-year period, but it's expected to go quickly.
The MCA anticipates additional funds in 2026 and 2027.
On Friday, Dec. 13 at noon, MCA is hosting a virtual informational session on the Digital Opportunity Networks Grants. The session will cover what organizations are eligible to apply.
To register, click here. If you miss the meeting, it will be recorded for anyone to watch at a later time.
