Accelerate Montana is thrilled to announce the renewal of a $50,000 grant via Microsoft’s TechSpark program. With this grant, Accelerate Montana will continue to foster digital inclusion through the expansion of training and workforce development programs in the technology sector for Montana Tribal communities
Accelerate Montana, offers a broad range of economic and workforce development programs to benefit Montana businesses and individuals, promoting inclusive economic prosperity in Montana by fostering strong workforce and enhancing economic capacity throughout the state. Accelerate Montana offers short-term training and workforce development programs to employers and individuals to prepare participants with the skills they need to access high paying jobs. The TeckSpark grant renewal marks the second year in a row that Accelerate Montana will partner with Microsoft to further our work in the technology sector.
The TechSpark is a program that seeks to expand technology to remote communities left behind by rapid technological growth. TechSpark provides resources to non-profit organizations for broadband and digital literacy programs to bridge the digital divide and support rural and Tribal Communities’ participation in the digital economy.
In partnership with Microsoft’s TechSpark program, Accelerate Montana hosted Montana’s first Tribal Broadband Bootcamp in Fort Belknap in May 2024. The Bootcamp brought together 50 participants from all of Montana's Tribal Communities, as well as out-of-state broadband experts, to provide an innovative hands-on learning experience in broadband technology. In Montana, only 72% of people have access to high-speed broadband. That coverage is even worse for the state’s tribal communities. Reducing digital inequity within Montana and the state’s Tribal Communities is a vital component of economic and workforce development. By providing access to higher-paying tech jobs and remote work opportunities, broadband fosters economic growth and enhances quality of life.
The renewal of the TechSpark grant allows Accelerate Montana to continue the important work of bridging the digital divide in Montana’s Tribal Communities.
