Technology Upgrade Fund Grant Program

Introduction
The Inclusion and Participation (I&P) Division of the ACT Community Services Directorate (CSD) is pleased to announce the 2020-2021 Technology Upgrade Fund Grant Program.

The Program initiative aligns with the ACT Government Digital Strategy and Age Friendly City Plan 2020-24.
The ACT Digital Strategy, launched in March 2020, aspires over the next decade to make Canberra one of the world’s most liveable cities; inclusive, progressive, connected, and open to all. The Strategy was developed through an extensive community consultation process and identified that Canberra is poised for a technology revolution, including in respect to the way ACT Government Directorates communicate and deliver services and programs to and with the community.

The ACT Government has made a commitment to make the Technology Upgrade Fund Grant Program available to the community services sector as well as for individuals in the community impacted by mobility constraints or other complex challenges that might place them at risk of not being able to access technology.

Aim
This Program is designed to;
Support community sector organisations to; upgrade IT equipment; develop improved communication platforms, including websites and access to software to support online webinars, online training and other activities; improve digital service provision and deliver digital literacy programs to enhance their capacity to effectively engage their communities and clients to participate fully in the life of Canberra through the use of digital technology; and

Meet the needs of Canberrans most at risk of digital exclusion, including those with mobility constraints by providing access to IT equipment, on-line and services through registered community organisations in the ACT.

Priority Areas
The Priority Areas are developed to meet the needs of Canberrans most at risk of digital exclusion by providing access through hundreds of registered community organisations in the ACT.

Available Funding

The Technology Upgrade Fund is a non-recurrent grant funding program.
The total funding available in 2020-21 under this Program is $478,000 (GST exclusive).
There is no maximum amount that can be applied for, however applicants should consider how they can partner or collaborate with one another to maximise the best value for money for their organisation and for their services to recipients.