October 1 - December 31, 2012
Broadband Mapping:
- Updated, validated and submitted availability, middle mile and Community Anchor Institution (CAI) data to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on October 1.
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Updated state wireline and wireless availability maps and the online Massachusetts Broadband Map.
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Completed beta development of an address maintenance application and database and functional requirements for a web mapping application.
Broadband Planning:
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Distributed baseline survey and guide on innovative uses of broadband to CAIs in Berkshire, Hampden and Hampshire Counties.
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Held pilot meetings with 3 Franklin County municipalities to discuss the deployment status and potential impact of the MassBroadband 123 fiber network.
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Prepared a Community Innovation Challenge grant application to promote science, technology and mathematics (STEM) education and workforce development.
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Developed draft Request for Quotations that CAIs may use to compare broadband provider services and prices.
Veterans' Web Portal:
- Added 63 new programs and benefits, bringing the total to 376, and conducted quality assurance reviews.
- Featured Mass VetsAdvisor in four local cable access show interviews throughout the state and testified to Boston City Council regarding Veteran reintegration and the need for online resources.
- Showcased Mass VetsAdvisor at 12 veterans' events and continued social media campaign and monthly newsletter. The site had over 5,400 unique visitors this quarter, 58% new users.
Community Development Corporation (CDC) Grants:
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Dorchester Bay CDC awarded $64,000 in grants to 12 small businesses.
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Quabog Valley CDC awarded $29,000 in grants to 7 small businesses.
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Pittsfield and New Bedford CDCs released their applications for grants to small businesses.
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Pittsfield CDC held a public forum with State Senator Ben Downing to promote the program.
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New Bedford CDC held 1training and 2 informational sessions.