Colorado’s internet authority launches grant program for digital services projects
The Colorado Statewide Internet Portal Authority, or SIPA, on Monday announced a new grant program designed to support digital government and civic technology projects throughout Colorado.
The program, the SIPA Digital Government Services Grant Program, will fund digital government projects, across the state at all levels of government, that focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery for Colorado residents. Government entities that are eligible to apply for the grant program include state agencies, city and county governments, special districts, public K-12 schools and public colleges and universities.
Proposals, which will be evaluated by a committee in SIPA’s board of directors, must include a project narrative, information about the project team and budget. The authority said strong consideration will be given to projects that align with Gov. Jared Polis’ priority issue areas — such as homelessness, crime, education and property taxes — and projects for traditionally underserved communities, like low-income residents, youth and small businesses.
According to grant program’s manual, award amounts will start at $25,000 with no maximum.
“We believe that by investing in a diverse portfolio of innovative technology solutions across Colorado, we can push the boundaries of civic technology beyond what is typically possible in government, and ultimately make a tangible difference in how Coloradans interact with government,” Noah Kaplan, Director of SIPA GovGrants, said in the news release.
Applications are open until June 21. SIPA predicted making the first cycle of awards by early fall.
