Connect Midwest Committee
The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical... View more
Organizers:
- Organized by
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The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program
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The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program
The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program is a state initiative aimed at ensuring that all Illinois residents have the necessary skills, technology, and capacity to fully benefit from the digital economy. Over the next five years, Illinois is set to receive more than $30 million to achieve its digital equity goals.
View the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Here
Illinois State Digital Equity Plan
Program Goals:
- Increase digital equity and support digital inclusion activities to benefit all Illinoisans.
Eligible Applicants:
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Community Organizations
- Public Libraries
- Educational Agencies
- Local Governments
Eligible Projects:
- Device Distribution Programs
- Digital Literacy & Skills Training
- Digital Navigation & Tech Support
- Community Tech Centers and Computer Labs
- Community Broadband Planning
Benefits to Illinois Counties within the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area:
Counties such as Madison, St. Clair, Monroe, and Jersey can leverage the IDEC Grant Program to:
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Enhance Digital Literacy: Implement training programs to improve residents’ digital skills, enabling better access to online resources and services.
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Expand Access to Technology: Establish community tech centers or computer labs, providing residents with access to necessary devices and high-speed internet.
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Support Community Broadband Planning: Develop comprehensive plans to improve broadband infrastructure, ensuring reliable internet access for all community members.
Upcoming Webinars and Guidance from the Illinois Department of Broadband:
The Illinois Office of Broadband, in collaboration with the Illinois Broadband Lab, is hosting a series of webinars to assist potential grantees:
February 14, 2025 | 11:00 AM CT | Project Areas: Digital Navigators
Discover how to set up a digital navigation program and hear from organizations that host digital navigators, as well as the navigators themselves, about the essential services they provide to help communities achieve digital equity.
Why This is a Great Opportunity for Collaboration
In the midst of widespread budget reductions affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, the Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant offers a timely and strategic opportunity to make impactful advancements in digital equity. While many programs face diminishing financial support, this initiative underscores Illinois’ commitment to building a digitally inclusive future.
Key Reasons To Apply:
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Amplify Digital Equity Efforts: TechSTL and its member organizations are already leading the charge in closing the digital divide across the bi-state region. This grant funding can support and expand those initiatives to benefit even more individuals and communities.
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Strengthen Partnerships: With its existing network of collaborators, Connect Midwest is perfectly positioned convene regional efforts in delivering digital literacy training, tech training, and implementing digital navigation programs.
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Innovative Community Solutions: The grant supports projects that align closely with TechSTL’s ecosystem building priorities, including setting up tech learning hubs, supporting broadband planning, and creating innovative workforce development programs in tech.
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Securing Financial Sustainability: As DEI-focused funding faces massive nation-wide cuts, this grant provides an invaluable lifeline to sustain and even grow impactful programs that foster inclusivity, access, and technological literacy for marginalized communities.
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Opportunity for Action: Connect Midwest can directly benefit from these funds to increase training as well as device access and enhance engagement with learners seeking professional growth.
Call to Action for TechSTL Partners:
With the funding landscape shifting, the IDEC Grant is not just a resource—it’s a chance to lead transformative digital equity efforts in Illinois counties like Madison, St. Clair, Monroe, and Jersey.
This is a rallying moment for Connect Midwest to position itself as a thought leader and driving force for digital empowerment in the region.
Don’t miss this chance to strengthen and expand your digital inclusion programs. Let’s collaborate and innovate to ensure equitable access to technology for everyone.
Register for Webinars & Engagement Sessions
Together, we can build a digitally equitable future for the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area.
dceo.illinois.gov
Illinois Digital Equity Capacity Grant
The goal of the Illinois Digital Equity Capacity Grant (IDEC) grant program is to ensure that all people and communities across Illinois have the skills, technology, and capacity needed to reap the full benefits of our digital economy. Illinois is … Continue reading
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3 Replies
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This is incredible and I’m excited to learn more about how we can get involved and make the most of this opportunity!
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Ditto! Excited to learn more!
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Great to hear! As I am getting more information and understanding, I’m planning to discuss a collaborative effort with those interested during the upcoming Connect Midwest meeting. Just wanted to share some base information prior! ????
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