The Affordable Connectivity Program is a subsidy that will help maintain the connection of families and households with difficulty paying for internet at home. This subsidy provides a discount of up to $30 on the internet bill at home with registered providers and a one-time $100 discount for the purchase of a computer or tablet. The Broadband Program of the Government of Puerto Rico is committed to the use of funds assigned to promote the growth of the percentage of people using this subsidy. Currently there are 63% of people who qualify in Puerto Rico for the subsidy but there are 593k registered as of today. This number that has grown since we started promoting it between stakeholders and the community in January, which was 563k.
The PRACP-OG addresses the pressing need to provide individuals and families with access to essential online services, educational resources, employment opportunities, and information exchange. By offering financial support and resources to grassroots organizations, the program seeks to amplify their outreach efforts and amplify the impact of digital inclusion initiatives throughout the region.
Resources: Grant Manager, Project Manager
Stage: Selection Process of Grant Manager
Immediate Items: Plan trainings and communications
Key Aspects of the Puerto Rico Affordable Connectivity Program Outreach Grant:
1. Financial Support: The grant program provides funding to selected organizations that demonstrate a commitment to promoting digital equity and connectivity. This financial support allows these organizations to design and implement effective outreach strategies tailored to the needs of their respective communities.
2. Community-Centric Approach: PRACP-OG encourages community-based organizations to develop initiatives that directly address the unique challenges faced by the communities they serve. By understanding local needs, these organizations can create impactful projects that resonate with residents and maximize the program's reach.
3. Outreach and Education: Grantees of the PRACP-OG are tasked with conducting outreach activities that raise awareness about the importance of internet connectivity and digital literacy. This includes organizing workshops, training sessions, and educational campaigns to empower individuals with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape.
4. Access to Devices and Services: The program supports initiatives that aim to provide affordable or subsidized internet access, as well as access to necessary devices like computers, tablets, or smartphones. By removing barriers related to hardware and connectivity costs, the program ensures that more individuals can fully participate in the digital world.
5. Collaboration and Partnerships: PRACP-OG encourages collaboration between grantees, government agencies, private sector entities, and other stakeholders to maximize the impact of digital inclusion efforts. By leveraging a network of resources, expertise, and knowledge, the program strives to create a more cohesive and effective approach to bridging the digital divide.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation: The program maintains a system for monitoring and evaluating the progress and outcomes of grant-funded projects. This ensures accountability and transparency in how funds are used and enables continuous improvement in the execution of digital inclusion initiatives.
