Item 6: Draft Recommendation Backup — original pdf

Backup

Recommendation for Maintaining Funding for the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) in the FY26 Budget WHEREAS, digital inclusion remains a critical issue for the residents of Austin, impacting access to essential services, economic opportunities, and educational resources; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has demonstrated its commitment to digital equity through continued investment in initiatives that support underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) has a proven track record of funding impactful community programs that provide digital literacy training, access to devices, and broadband connectivity to Austin residents; and WHEREAS, maintaining the GTOPs budget at $400,000 will ensure the program’s continued impact, enabling more organizations to bridge the digital divide and support the City’s strategic goals on digital equity; and WHEREAS, community organizations rely on GTOPs funding to expand digital inclusion programs, ensuring that residents have access to the technology and skills necessary to participate fully in an increasingly digital world; and WHEREAS, continued investment in GTOPs aligns with the City of Austin’s strategic objectives related to digital equity, workforce development, and economic opportunity; and WHEREAS, the GTOPs program offers multiple funding pathways to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing digital inclusion challenges, including Core Funding, Mini Funding, and Capacity Funding; and WHEREAS, Core Funding supports large-scale initiatives aimed at significantly advancing digital inclusion efforts within the community; and WHEREAS, Mini Funding serves as a vital resource for smaller-scale projects and initiatives seeking to make meaningful contributions to digital inclusion efforts in Austin; and WHEREAS, Capacity Funding provides essential support to grassroots organizations and initiatives, enabling them to build capacity and expand their reach in addressing digital inclusion disparities within underserved communities; and WHEREAS, the demand for digital inclusion funding continues to grow, with community organizations reporting an ongoing need for financial resources to support programs that enhance digital access and literacy; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $400,000 in the FY26 Budget to the Grant for Technology Opportunities Program (GTOPs) to further advance digital inclusion efforts citywide.