AT&T announces $1.5 million in grants for wireless projects

Public charities and government agencies in the U.S., except Alaska, are eligible for a $1.5 million competitive grant program aimed at integrating wireless communications technologies into educational outreach programs launched by the AT&T Foundation.

The 2007 AT&T Foundation Wireless Competitive Grant Program will award software and equipment valued at $2,500 to $25,000 for programs that "utilize wireless technology to enhance the delivery of education and other settings that engage youth and adults in life-long learning." Fifty-one percent of proposed projects must reach traditionally underserved groups in the organization's community, including racial and ethnic groups, low-income populations, seniors, youth and people with disabilities.

Samples of projects to be considered for grants, as cited by AT&T, include the creation of wireless hotspots to make educational material accessible; development of educational curricula that can be accessed via mobile devices; delivery of supplemental educational materials via text messaging; and development of community education podcasts.

Proposals are due Oct. 19. Click here for more information, including a downloadable RFP.