The goal of the Digital Divide Grant Program is to increase access to computers, telecommunications technologies, and related training for populations residing in low-income communities.  Under this program, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is authorized to make grants to plan, establish, administer, and expand Community Technology Centers (CTCs) and to support technology access programs.  CTC programs provide computer access and educational services using information technology to individuals, communities, and populations that typically would not otherwise have opportunities to use computer and telecommunications technologies. 

DIGITAL DIVIDE PROGRAM - ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
The Department seeks applications from Community Technology Centers located in and serving "eligible communities".  An eligible community is a community in which not less than 40% of students are eligible for a free or reduced price lunch under the national school lunch program, or in which not less than 30% of students are eligible for a free lunch under the national school lunch program.  Community Technology Centers include public hospitals, libraries, park districts, state educational agencies, local educational agencies, institutions of higher education, public and private nonprofit or for-profit educational organizations.  In addition to being an eligible entity, a CTC must provide computer access and educational services to the public at least twelve (12) hours each week.  Please refer to the application for complete eligibility requirements.

School Lunch Statistics

ELIGIBLE COSTS
The maximum grant award allowed under the Digital Divide Law is $75,000 per Fiscal Year.  Funds may be used to provide training services and activities that use technology to improve academic achievement, career development, and adult education.  Grant funds may also be used for equipment, software, and other capacity building costs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Questions and requests pertaining to this program should be directed to Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, 100 West Randolph Suite 3-400, Chicago, IL 60601, Telephone: (312) 814-5362

PROGRAM TO FOSTER THE DIGITAL DIVIDE PROGRAM
The Department will accept contributions from individuals, companies, and foundations to support the Digital Divide Grant Program.  Local telecommunication exchange carriers may also collect voluntary contributions from customers. 

Click here for the application

LEC Collection and Remittance Information