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Technology Grants Fuel Appalachia’s Future- Regional Effort is Crucial

Governor Mark R. Warner announced that he is recommending $306,700 in Appalachian Regional Commission funding for 14 projects that will support entrepreneurial business efforts in Virginia’ s Appalachian communities and increase access to technology in the region.

Govtech.net

"In order for southwest Virginia’s economy to thrive, the region needs the technology infrastructure that will attract 21st century industries to the area and support our traditional industries and small business efforts," Warner said. "I am proud to work with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to support projects that will bring businesses, jobs, and technology into Virginia’s Appalachian region and eliminate the digital divide that exists between our suburban and rural communities."

Warner was named the states’ co-chairman of the ARC in January of 2003. In that capacity, he will oversee ARC meetings throughout the year and provide leadership and guidance for the commission. In addition, the governor will host the annual ARC fall conference, which will be held in Abingdon, Virginia in October, and will focus on increasing access to affordable technology in Appalachia.

The ARC consists of 13 states, including Virginia, and provides funding and support to foster economic development and improve the quality of life for the country’s Appalachian citizens. The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development implements the ARC program for the state. Through a competitive grant process, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) recommends eligible grantees to receive ARC funding for projects within Virginia’s Appalachian region, which encompasses 23 counties and seven independent cities in Southwest Virginia.

"Our agency is committed to improving living and working conditions in Virginia’s under-served localities," said Bill Shelton, DHCD director. "These ARC grants will increase small business opportunities, help create a well-trained and highly qualified workforce, and improve access to affordable technology for individuals and businesses throughout Appalachian Virginia."

Warner’s recommendation of $306,700 in ARC grants for projects in Virginia includes funding from the Commission’s Entrepreneurship Initiative and the Telecommunications Initiative. ARC Entrepreneurship grants provide entrepreneurs in Appalachia with access to capital, technology, and education and training programs that will help them start or expand their businesses, resulting in job creation and increased local wealth that will strengthen the local economy.

Grants awarded through the ARC Telecommunications Initiative focus on projects that will increase access to technology, support technology-based education and training programs, increase the use of e-commerce practices, and create technology sector jobs.

http://www.govtech.net/news/news.php?id=2003.08.01-62409

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