October 1, 2001
(202) 482-7002
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For Immediate Release October 1, 2001 |
Contact: Clyde Ensslin (202) 482-7002 |
NTIA Awards $42.8 Million in Technology Opportunities Program (TOP) GrantsAdvanced Telecommunications Technology Grants Assist Underserved CommunitiesThe Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) today announced the award of $42.8 million in Technology Opportunities Program (TOP) grants to 74 non-profit organizations, including state and local governments, across the country and in Puerto Rico.TOP grants, matched by $46.7 million in contributions from the private sector and state and local organizations, extend the benefits of advanced telecommunications technologies to underserved communities and neighborhoods. "We want these grants to demonstrate how the most up-to-date technology can assist the delivery of services to Americans of all ages and backgrounds, improving levels of public safety, public health, public information, homeownership and economic development,” said Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information Nancy J. Victory. “Successful TOP grants recipients share best practices with other non-profit and public sector organizations.” Services provided by this year’s grant winners include: telemedicine (videoconferencing with translation/interpretation tools, access for the deaf and hard of hearing); public safety (fire incident reporting, beach safety, community policing); distance learning (job training, access to health benefits, access to local history and culture); community information (affordable housing, public housing); as well as numerous other innovative services. A complete list of the FY 2001 TOP award grants is available on the TOP Web site at http://www.ntia.doc.gov/otiahome/top/index.html or by calling NTIA at 202-482-2048. |