Louisiana launches initiative to expand access to technology and digital skills

ConnectLA announced the launch of the ÉTOUFFÉE program and the opening of a grant application portal, providing eligible organizations serving Louisiana communities with access to digital devices and digital skills resources. The program is designed to equip organizations with technology resources that support workforce development, education and health-related services in communities across the state. The ÉTOUFFÉE program—Enhancing Technological Opportunity for yoU and your Family to Foster Education and Enterprise—provides qualifying organizations with accessible laptops, desktops, tablets and related technology resources to support community access and digital opportunity initiatives. Eligible applicants include veterans service organizations, rural public health agencies and facilities, municipalities, state agencies and qualifying post-secondary institutions. Organizations may apply to support device loan programs, public computer labs, workforce development activities, digital literacy training, and health-related technology access initiatives that are free and open to the public.