Digital Equity Grant Opportunities
Technology Matching Fund
The Technology Matching Fund (TMF) program was established in 1997 to support the community’s efforts to close the digital divide and encourage a technology-healthy city. Over $7 million has been awarded since 1998. The fund continues the legacy of Bill Wright, a Central District community leader who embodied the program goals of creating digital equity and opportunities for all, and of using technology tools to engage residents, improve communications and strengthen communities.
City dollars are matched by the community's contribution of volunteer labor, materials, professional services, or cash. Projects should aim to increase internet access and adoption by providing:
- Digital literacy skills training: Digital literacy skills training for new technology users.
- Devices and technical support: Devices and the support needed to use it effectively.
- Access to the Internet: Internet to low-income residents by expanding Wi-Fi or another means.
Digital Navigator Grant
The pandemic has magnified the digital inequities in key demographic groups lacking high-speed internet and devices needed for school and work. In response to this crisis, the City spearheaded the Internet for All Seattle Initiative in 2020 (see Res. 31956 adopted by Council and signed by the Mayor). This framework has served as a roadmap for Seattle to move closer to the ambitious goal of universal internet adoption for all residents. As a result, the Digital Navigator Grant was created in response to community-expressed needs for residents without reliable internet and computing devices. Digital navigators have emerged locally and nationally as trusted guides to ensure residents receive on-demand tech support and assistance with foundational digital skills.
Projects should aim to increase internet access and adoption by providing digital navigator services: one-on-one or small group, just-in-time assistance via phone, email, text, video chat, and in-person to help residents (1) use their devices (computers, laptops, and smartphones), (2) connect to the internet, and (3) enroll in low-cost internet plans.Your project may include other digital equity components (digital literacy classes and/or workshops; devices and technical support; or internet connectivity), but the majority of your budget will be allocated to digital navigator services.
Grants will be awarded to organizations committed to delivering digital navigator services in partnership with the City to accomplish the following:
- Assist residents navigate and apply to city affordability programs
- Help improve City services through focus groups and reporting
- Assist inequitably impacted populations that are least likely to access City services, which may include providing language access
How to Apply
Applications are accepted through the City’s FLUXX portal. Use Chrome browser for an optimized experience. Create an account and add your organization to the application
Timeline for 2024 Funding
Applications Accepted: 12PM on September 18, 2023
Preliminary Application Deadline: 12PM on October 5, 2023
Deadline: 12PM on November 9, 2023
Award Notification: February 2024
Project Implementation: April 2024 to March 2025
2024 Grant Information Sessions
2024 Seattle Digital Equity Grant - Information Session #1
Wednesday, October 4, 2023 10:00 AM | 1 hour | (UTC-07:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
Meeting number: 2483 581 5712
Password: CQccm7dnQ75
Join by video system
Dial 24835815712@seattle.webex.com
You can also dial 173.243.2.68 and enter your meeting number.
Join by phone
+1 (206) 207-1700 United States Toll (Seattle)
+1 (408) 418-9388 United States Toll
Access code: 248 358 15712
2024 Seattle Digital Equity Grants - Information Session #2
Wednesday, October 18, 2023 12:00 PM | 1 hour | (UTC-07:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
Meeting number: 2480 159 2797
Password: sXNJA9Zgk48
Join by video system
Dial 24801592797@seattle.webex.com
You can also dial 173.243.2.68 and enter your meeting number.
Join by phone
+1 (206) 207-1700 United States Toll (Seattle)
+1 (408) 418-9388 United States Toll
Access code: 248 015 92797
2024 Seattle Digital Equity Grants - Information Session #3
Thursday, November 2, 2023 5:00 PM | 1 hour | (UTC-07:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada)
Meeting number: 2493 446 8698
Password: gRx4EGgzU36
Join by video system
Dial 24934468698@seattle.webex.com
You can also dial 173.243.2.68 and enter your meeting number.
Join by phone
+1 (206) 207-1700 United States Toll (Seattle)
+1 (408) 418-9388 United States Toll
Access code: 249 344 68698
Contact
If you would like to schedule a meeting, have questions about the application, or need technical assistance, please email communitytechnology@seattle.gov.
Internet for All
These funds are a key part of the City's Internet for All framework. The lack of access to internet-accessible devices and technical skills play a significant role in why some residents remain unconnected. Partnering with organizations that support communities in a holistic way is essential for reaching diverse populations that need digital support. Read the City of Seattle's Internet For All Strategies and Action Plan here.