Category
April 22, 2024

FloridaCommerce Awards $2 Million Grant to Urban League of Broward County

Media Contact:
Alica Brown
abrown@ulbcfl.org
954.625.2544

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FloridaCommerce Awards $2 Million Grant to
Urban League of Broward County

Funding allocated to bolster infrastructure, broaden programs and empower individuals for success in the digital age.

Fort Lauderdale, FL – April 22, 2024. The Urban League of Broward County is thrilled to announce a significant grant of $2 million from the Florida Department of Commerce, furthering its commitment to advancing health, workforce development, and education within the community. This investment is part of a broader $223 million grant program aimed at expanding broadband internet access to underserved populations, including small and rural communities.

The grant program encompasses $135 million from the state through the Broadband Opportunity Program and $86 million in federal funds through the Multipurpose Community Facilities Program – which aids in constructing and revitalizing community buildings. Among the recipients, the Urban League of Broward County’s Community Empowerment Center (CEC) was selected as one of 29 recipients to advance infrastructure projects. As a dynamic hub for collaboration and innovation, the Urban League’s Community Empowerment Center will leverage the $2 million investment to enhance its infrastructure, expand its programs, and ensure individuals have access to the resources necessary to thrive in the digital age.

“This investment from the Florida Department of Commerce will not only bolster the CEC’s capacity to serve the community but also address the digital divide prevalent in underserved areas, said Dr. Germaine Smith Baugh, president and CEO for the Urban League of Broward County. “Through strategic planning and targeted improvements, we can pave the way for prosperity for the families we support.”

The Urban League will renovate its Center to provide an enriched learning environment for its clients, staff and community members. These enhancements include:

  • Upgrading of infrastructure and technology to better meet the needs of the community.
  • Expanding of health and wellness programs to enhance access to health education and services.
  • Strengthening workforce development initiatives to equip individuals with the skills and training needed for sustainable employment.
  • Implementing educational programs to foster lifelong learning and academic achievement.

FloridaCommerce is proud to support strategic broadband investments that will help every kid in the community have access to the Internet,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “This project is education-focused, job-focused, health-focused, and community-focused, and FloridaCommerce will continue to elevate our partners as they work to support job seekers, job creators, families and communities.” For more information about the Urban League and its programs, please visit www.ulbroward.org or contact 954.584.0777.

About Urban League of Broward County

The Urban League of Broward County is a not-for-profit organization founded to empower communities and change lives. Its mission is to enable African Americans and others in historically underserved communities to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power, and civil rights. The Urban League’s ADVANCE programs uplift nearly 14,000 people every year through affordable housing initiatives, youth development and diversion, employment and training, entrepreneurship, health, and civic engagement. Learn more about the Urban League of Broward County by visiting www.ulbroward.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.