This Project Grant award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) CFDA Program 10.310 provides $649,994 to the Regents of the University of Idaho to conduct research and extension programming aimed at bridging the digital divide and promoting economic growth in rural and underserved communities through broadband access and digital skills development. The project consists of two key components: 1) Research to understand the factors influencing successful economic growth related to broadband use, entrepreneurship, and job creation in rural areas, as well as the institutional, social, cultural, and economic barriers to adopting e-commerce and remote work; and 2) Extension programming to provide technical guidance, resources, and training to support rural and minority entrepreneurs and employees in adapting to the digital economy. The extension efforts will also focus on strategies to increase internet adoption among historically underserved populations. The goal is to strengthen rural communities, increase diversity, and foster long-term sustainability of U.S. agriculture and rural development.
Mod # | Description | Reason For Modification | Federal Obligation (Click to sort descending) | Date (Click to sort ascending) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not listed | $650.0k | 8/18/24 |