TechSTL App | Connect Midwest Committee | Activity

Gage McCallister started the discussion 4/10/26 Updates on the Free City Wifi Parks in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 23:22:32 -0500

4/10/26 Updates on the Free City Wifi Parks

Connecting Our Community: Big Updates on the Free City Wifi Parks Project!

We have some thrilling news to share regarding our mission to bring high-speed, free public wifi to our city parks. We are officially moving into a new chapter of this project, and the finish line for a more connected St. Louis is in sight!

Phase 2 is Entering the… Read more

Gage McCallister started the discussion Free City WiFi Updates 3/23/26 in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 23:19:21 -0500

Free City WiFi Updates 3/23/26

It has been a high-energy week for our community WiFi initiative. As we move closer to our goal of universal park connectivity, we are thrilled to share some major milestones that bring high-speed internet to more of your favorite neighborhood green spaces.

Construction Progress and Milestones

We are officially checking two more locations off…

Gage McCallister replied to the discussion Potential/ future funding source? in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 19:53:08 -0600

Reply to Potential/ future funding source?

Thanks, Hannah!

I’ve recently been asked a few times about an In-kind grant source and it lead to a few wins for friends. Maybe we ought to start a whole thread/document to share relative funding resources. 🤠🤠

Hannah started the discussion Potential/ future funding source? in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 19:26:08 -0600

Potential/ future funding source?

I am sure that you all known about this funder already but I wanted to share just in case:

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Gage McCallister replied to the discussion The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:22:46 -0600

Reply to The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program

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! 😉

Hannah replied to the discussion The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 23:42:29 -0600

Reply to The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program

Ditto! Excited to learn more!

David replied to the discussion The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 23:27:36 -0600

Reply to The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program

This is incredible and I’m excited to learn more about how we can get involved and make the most of this opportunity!

Gage McCallister started the discussion The Illinois Digital Equity Capacity (IDEC) Grant Program in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 23:19:22 -0600

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.

…

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

Hannah replied to the discussion NTIA Competitive Grant Funding Updates in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:36:39 -0600

Reply to NTIA Competitive Grant Funding Updates

Let us know what we can do to help.

-Hannah

Gage McCallister started the discussion NTIA Competitive Grant Funding Updates in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:30:03 -0600

NTIA Competitive Grant Funding Updates

The world has sure been a whirlwind, no doubt about that.

The Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program, established under the Digital Equity Act, aims to fund initiatives that ensure communities have the access and skills to fully participate in the digital world, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Among local applicants, we…

Gage McCallister replied to the discussion Welcome to the Connect Midwest Committee! in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 21:40:16 -0600

Reply to Welcome to the Connect Midwest Committee!

Going first…

What inspired you to join the Connect Midwest Committee?

I’ve been working on bistate broadband infrastructure and Affordable Connectivity Program initiatives since the pandemic alongside the Illinois Department of Broadband and National Digital Inclusion Alliance. Through this work, I found a knack for connecting dots,…

Emily changed the description of the committee Connect Midwest Committee from "The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical issues around digital opportunity, broadband access, and digital literacy in the St. Louis Metro. Meeting monthly, this committee brings together passionate advocates, industry experts, and community leaders to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide and empower equitable access to technology. The primary focus of the committee is to launch Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate of the St. Louis Metro. Through collaborative events, resource sharing, and targeted advocacy efforts, the Connect Midwest Committee works to: Expand broadband infrastructure and connectivity throughout the region. Enhance digital literacy programs to equip individuals and communities with essential tech skills. Advocate for policies and funding that promote equitable digital access and opportunity. Build partnerships that support digital inclusion and workforce readiness. The Connect Midwest Committee Group & Forum is a public space brings together advocates, experts, and community leaders working to bridge the digital divide across the St. Louis Metro region's 15-county bistate area. GROUP PURPOSE This group serves as a platform for: Coordinating digital inclusion initiatives and programs Sharing broadband access resources and opportunities Discussing regional connectivity challenges and solutions Building partnerships for digital literacy programs Advancing policy advocacy and funding initiatives Supporting community-driven tech education efforts MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY Digital inclusion advocates and professionals Broadband infrastructure experts Community organization representatives Education and workforce development partners Government and policy stakeholders Technology access program coordinators General public interested in digital equity POSTING GUIDELINES DO: Share digital inclusion resources and programs Post updates on broadband initiatives Contribute to policy discussions Share community success stories Promote digital literacy events Offer partnership opportunities Post funding and grant information DON'T: Share politically partisan content Post commercial promotions without approval Engage in discriminatory behavior Share private community information Post unverified technical claims INTERACTION GUIDELINES Foster inclusive and respectful dialogue Consider diverse community perspectives Provide constructive policy input Support collaborative problem-solving Maintain focus on community benefit Respect varied technical expertise levels CONTENT MODERATION Content should support digital equity goals Posts may be reviewed for accuracy Community guidelines strictly enforced Members can flag concerning content PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY Respect community privacy needs Protect sensitive program information Follow data sharing protocols Maintain grant discussion confidentiality Adhere to partner privacy policies EVENT PARTICIPATION Share events that are: Digital literacy programs Community tech training Policy advocacy meetings Infrastructure planning sessions Digital inclusion workshops Include accessibility information Provide virtual participation options RESOURCE SHARING Share verified digital access resources Provide multilingual materials when possible Credit original sources Include implementation guidance Focus on practical community benefit ADVOCACY GUIDELINES Focus on evidence-based advocacy Share policy research and data Maintain non-partisan approach Support community-led initiatives Document impact and outcomes VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES First occurrence: Educational conversation Second occurrence: Temporary posting restriction Third occurrence: Membership review Severe violations may result in immediate removal CONTACT INFORMATION For questions or concerns about these guidelines, contact: TechSTL Director of Digital Equity: Gage McCallister, Gage@TechSTL.com These guidelines are subject to updates and revisions. Members will be notified of any significant changes to these rules. Last Updated: January 2025" to "The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical issues around digital opportunity, broadband access, and digital literacy in the St. Louis Metro. Meeting monthly, this committee brings together passionate advocates, industry experts, and community leaders to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide and empower equitable access to technology. The primary focus of the committee is to launch Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate of the St. Louis Metro. Through collaborative events, resource sharing, and targeted advocacy efforts, the Connect Midwest Committee works to: Expand broadband infrastructure and connectivity throughout the region. Enhance digital literacy programs to equip individuals and communities with essential tech skills. Advocate for policies and funding that promote equitable digital access and opportunity. Build partnerships that support digital inclusion and workforce readiness. The Connect Midwest Committee Group & Forum is a public space brings together advocates, experts, and community leaders working to bridge the digital divide across the St. Louis Metro region's 15-county bistate area. GROUP PURPOSE This group serves as a platform for: Coordinating digital inclusion initiatives and programs Sharing broadband access resources and opportunities Discussing regional connectivity challenges and solutions Building partnerships for digital literacy programs Advancing policy advocacy and funding initiatives Supporting community-driven tech education efforts MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY Digital inclusion advocates and professionals Broadband infrastructure experts Community organization representatives Education and workforce development partners Government and policy stakeholders Technology access program coordinators General public interested in digital equity POSTING GUIDELINES DO: Share digital inclusion resources and programs Post updates on broadband initiatives Contribute to policy discussions Share community success stories Promote digital literacy events Offer partnership opportunities Post funding and grant information DON'T: Share politically partisan content Post commercial promotions without approval Engage in discriminatory behavior Share private community information Post unverified technical claims INTERACTION GUIDELINES Foster inclusive and respectful dialogue Consider diverse community perspectives Provide constructive policy input Support collaborative problem-solving Maintain focus on community benefit Respect varied technical expertise levels CONTENT MODERATION Content should support digital equity goals Posts may be reviewed for accuracy Community guidelines strictly enforced Members can flag concerning content PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY Respect community privacy needs Protect sensitive program information Follow data sharing protocols Maintain grant discussion confidentiality Adhere to partner privacy policies EVENT PARTICIPATION Share events that are: Digital literacy programs Community tech training Policy advocacy meetings Infrastructure planning sessions Digital inclusion workshops Include accessibility information Provide virtual participation options RESOURCE SHARING Share verified digital access resources Provide multilingual materials when possible Credit original sources Include implementation guidance Focus on practical community benefit ADVOCACY GUIDELINES Focus on evidence-based advocacy Share policy research and data Maintain non-partisan approach Support community-led initiatives Document impact and outcomes VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES First occurrence: Educational conversation Second occurrence: Temporary posting restriction Third occurrence: Membership review Severe violations may result in immediate removal CONTACT INFORMATION For questions or concerns about these guidelines, contact: TechSTL Director of Digital Equity: Gage McCallister, Gage@TechSTL.com These guidelines are subject to updates and revisions. Members will be notified of any significant changes to these rules. Last Updated: January 2025"

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 18:27:02 -0600

Emily changed the description of the committee Connect Midwest Committee from "The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical issues around digital opportunity, broadband access, and digital literacy in the St. Louis Metro. Meeting monthly, this committee brings together passionate advocates, industry experts, and community leaders to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide and empower equitable access to technology. The primary focus of the committee is to launch Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate of the St. Louis Metro. Through collaborative events, resource sharing, and targeted advocacy efforts, the Connect Midwest Committee works to: Expand broadband infrastructure and connectivity throughout the region. Enhance digital literacy programs to equip individuals and communities with essential tech skills. Advocate for policies and funding that promote equitable digital access and opportunity. Build partnerships that support digital inclusion and workforce readiness. Whether advancing infrastructure, fostering tech education, or championing systemic change, the Connect Midwest Committee is committed to ensuring everyone in the St. Louis Metro has the tools and opportunities to thrive in the digital age. Join us in creating a more connected and inclusive future for the region. The Connect Midwest Committee Group & Forum is a public space brings together advocates, experts, and community leaders working to bridge the digital divide across the St. Louis Metro region's 15-county bistate area. GROUP PURPOSE This group serves as a platform for: Coordinating digital inclusion initiatives and programs Sharing broadband access resources and opportunities Discussing regional connectivity challenges and solutions Building partnerships for digital literacy programs Advancing policy advocacy and funding initiatives Supporting community-driven tech education efforts MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY Digital inclusion advocates and professionals Broadband infrastructure experts Community organization representatives Education and workforce development partners Government and policy stakeholders Technology access program coordinators General public interested in digital equity POSTING GUIDELINES DO: Share digital inclusion resources and programs Post updates on broadband initiatives Contribute to policy discussions Share community success stories Promote digital literacy events Offer partnership opportunities Post funding and grant information DON'T: Share politically partisan content Post commercial promotions without approval Engage in discriminatory behavior Share private community information Post unverified technical claims INTERACTION GUIDELINES Foster inclusive and respectful dialogue Consider diverse community perspectives Provide constructive policy input Support collaborative problem-solving Maintain focus on community benefit Respect varied technical expertise levels CONTENT MODERATION Content should support digital equity goals Posts may be reviewed for accuracy Community guidelines strictly enforced Members can flag concerning content PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY Respect community privacy needs Protect sensitive program information Follow data sharing protocols Maintain grant discussion confidentiality Adhere to partner privacy policies EVENT PARTICIPATION Share events that are: Digital literacy programs Community tech training Policy advocacy meetings Infrastructure planning sessions Digital inclusion workshops Include accessibility information Provide virtual participation options RESOURCE SHARING Share verified digital access resources Provide multilingual materials when possible Credit original sources Include implementation guidance Focus on practical community benefit ADVOCACY GUIDELINES Focus on evidence-based advocacy Share policy research and data Maintain non-partisan approach Support community-led initiatives Document impact and outcomes VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES First occurrence: Educational conversation Second occurrence: Temporary posting restriction Third occurrence: Membership review Severe violations may result in immediate removal CONTACT INFORMATION For questions or concerns about these guidelines, contact: TechSTL Director of Digital Equity: Gage McCallister, Gage@TechSTL.com These guidelines are subject to updates and revisions. Members will be notified of any significant changes to these rules. Last Updated: January 2025" to "The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical issues around digital opportunity, broadband access, and digital literacy in the St. Louis Metro. Meeting monthly, this committee brings together passionate advocates, industry experts, and community leaders to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide and empower equitable access to technology. The primary focus of the committee is to launch Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate of the St. Louis Metro. Through collaborative events, resource sharing, and targeted advocacy efforts, the Connect Midwest Committee works to: Expand broadband infrastructure and connectivity throughout the region. Enhance digital literacy programs to equip individuals and communities with essential tech skills. Advocate for policies and funding that promote equitable digital access and opportunity. Build partnerships that support digital inclusion and workforce readiness. The Connect Midwest Committee Group & Forum is a public space brings together advocates, experts, and community leaders working to bridge the digital divide across the St. Louis Metro region's 15-county bistate area. GROUP PURPOSE This group serves as a platform for: Coordinating digital inclusion initiatives and programs Sharing broadband access resources and opportunities Discussing regional connectivity challenges and solutions Building partnerships for digital literacy programs Advancing policy advocacy and funding initiatives Supporting community-driven tech education efforts MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY Digital inclusion advocates and professionals Broadband infrastructure experts Community organization representatives Education and workforce development partners Government and policy stakeholders Technology access program coordinators General public interested in digital equity POSTING GUIDELINES DO: Share digital inclusion resources and programs Post updates on broadband initiatives Contribute to policy discussions Share community success stories Promote digital literacy events Offer partnership opportunities Post funding and grant information DON'T: Share politically partisan content Post commercial promotions without approval Engage in discriminatory behavior Share private community information Post unverified technical claims INTERACTION GUIDELINES Foster inclusive and respectful dialogue Consider diverse community perspectives Provide constructive policy input Support collaborative problem-solving Maintain focus on community benefit Respect varied technical expertise levels CONTENT MODERATION Content should support digital equity goals Posts may be reviewed for accuracy Community guidelines strictly enforced Members can flag concerning content PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY Respect community privacy needs Protect sensitive program information Follow data sharing protocols Maintain grant discussion confidentiality Adhere to partner privacy policies EVENT PARTICIPATION Share events that are: Digital literacy programs Community tech training Policy advocacy meetings Infrastructure planning sessions Digital inclusion workshops Include accessibility information Provide virtual participation options RESOURCE SHARING Share verified digital access resources Provide multilingual materials when possible Credit original sources Include implementation guidance Focus on practical community benefit ADVOCACY GUIDELINES Focus on evidence-based advocacy Share policy research and data Maintain non-partisan approach Support community-led initiatives Document impact and outcomes VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES First occurrence: Educational conversation Second occurrence: Temporary posting restriction Third occurrence: Membership review Severe violations may result in immediate removal CONTACT INFORMATION For questions or concerns about these guidelines, contact: TechSTL Director of Digital Equity: Gage McCallister, Gage@TechSTL.com These guidelines are subject to updates and revisions. Members will be notified of any significant changes to these rules. Last Updated: January 2025"

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 18:25:19 -0600

Emily changed the description of the committee Connect Midwest Committee from "The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical issues around digital opportunity, broadband access, and digital literacy in the St. Louis Metro. Meeting monthly, this committee brings together passionate advocates, industry experts, and community leaders to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide and empower equitable access to technology. The primary focus of the committee is to launch Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate of the St. Louis Metro. Through collaborative events, resource sharing, and targeted advocacy efforts, the Connect Midwest Committee works to: Expand broadband infrastructure and connectivity throughout the region. Enhance digital literacy programs to equip individuals and communities with essential tech skills. Advocate for policies and funding that promote equitable digital access and opportunity. Build partnerships that support digital inclusion and workforce readiness. Whether advancing infrastructure, fostering tech education, or championing systemic change, the Connect Midwest Committee is committed to ensuring everyone in the St. Louis Metro has the tools and opportunities to thrive in the digital age. Join us in creating a more connected and inclusive future for the region." to "The Connect Midwest Committee is a public group within TechSTL dedicated to addressing critical issues around digital opportunity, broadband access, and digital literacy in the St. Louis Metro. Meeting monthly, this committee brings together passionate advocates, industry experts, and community leaders to drive initiatives that bridge the digital divide and empower equitable access to technology. The primary focus of the committee is to launch Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate of the St. Louis Metro. Through collaborative events, resource sharing, and targeted advocacy efforts, the Connect Midwest Committee works to: Expand broadband infrastructure and connectivity throughout the region. Enhance digital literacy programs to equip individuals and communities with essential tech skills. Advocate for policies and funding that promote equitable digital access and opportunity. Build partnerships that support digital inclusion and workforce readiness. Whether advancing infrastructure, fostering tech education, or championing systemic change, the Connect Midwest Committee is committed to ensuring everyone in the St. Louis Metro has the tools and opportunities to thrive in the digital age. Join us in creating a more connected and inclusive future for the region. The Connect Midwest Committee Group & Forum is a public space brings together advocates, experts, and community leaders working to bridge the digital divide across the St. Louis Metro region's 15-county bistate area. GROUP PURPOSE This group serves as a platform for: Coordinating digital inclusion initiatives and programs Sharing broadband access resources and opportunities Discussing regional connectivity challenges and solutions Building partnerships for digital literacy programs Advancing policy advocacy and funding initiatives Supporting community-driven tech education efforts MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY Digital inclusion advocates and professionals Broadband infrastructure experts Community organization representatives Education and workforce development partners Government and policy stakeholders Technology access program coordinators General public interested in digital equity POSTING GUIDELINES DO: Share digital inclusion resources and programs Post updates on broadband initiatives Contribute to policy discussions Share community success stories Promote digital literacy events Offer partnership opportunities Post funding and grant information DON'T: Share politically partisan content Post commercial promotions without approval Engage in discriminatory behavior Share private community information Post unverified technical claims INTERACTION GUIDELINES Foster inclusive and respectful dialogue Consider diverse community perspectives Provide constructive policy input Support collaborative problem-solving Maintain focus on community benefit Respect varied technical expertise levels CONTENT MODERATION Content should support digital equity goals Posts may be reviewed for accuracy Community guidelines strictly enforced Members can flag concerning content PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY Respect community privacy needs Protect sensitive program information Follow data sharing protocols Maintain grant discussion confidentiality Adhere to partner privacy policies EVENT PARTICIPATION Share events that are: Digital literacy programs Community tech training Policy advocacy meetings Infrastructure planning sessions Digital inclusion workshops Include accessibility information Provide virtual participation options RESOURCE SHARING Share verified digital access resources Provide multilingual materials when possible Credit original sources Include implementation guidance Focus on practical community benefit ADVOCACY GUIDELINES Focus on evidence-based advocacy Share policy research and data Maintain non-partisan approach Support community-led initiatives Document impact and outcomes VIOLATION CONSEQUENCES First occurrence: Educational conversation Second occurrence: Temporary posting restriction Third occurrence: Membership review Severe violations may result in immediate removal CONTACT INFORMATION For questions or concerns about these guidelines, contact: TechSTL Director of Digital Equity: Gage McCallister, Gage@TechSTL.com These guidelines are subject to updates and revisions. Members will be notified of any significant changes to these rules. Last Updated: January 2025"

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 17:56:07 -0600

Gage McCallister started the discussion Welcome to the Connect Midwest Committee! in the forum Connect Midwest Committee

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 19:03:13 -0600

Welcome to the Connect Midwest Committee!

Our ultimate goal is to establish Connect Midwest as a self-sustaining 501(c)(3) organization, actively serving the 15-county bistate region of the St. Louis Metro. Whether advancing infrastructure, fostering tech education, or championing systemic change, the Connect Midwest Committee is committed to ensuring everyone in the St. Louis Metro…

Gage McCallister joined the committee Connect Midwest Committee

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 14:46:30 -0600