MVEDD seeks proposals in response to this RFP to find a qualified digital equity facilitator to undertake the following tasks (collectively, the “Project”): 1. Collaborate with MVEDD staff on technical assistance activities to fill identified capacity gaps, synthesize the digital equity goals of the various members of the Mohawk Valley Broadband Coalition into a cohesive and unified set of goals, and work with MVBC to advance the accomplishment of such goals. 2. Develop a comprehensive three-year strategic plan (and high-level summary overview) for the Coalition which details the Coalition’s current situation and future goals, with recommendations for achieving those goals, guiding outreach initiatives, informing grant proposals, and creating long-term sustainability. 3. Work with relevant partners and digital equity framework methods to perform a comprehensive survey and data-based analysis of the Coalition and recommend steps for moving forward. Results will be organized per County and shared with the MVBC and MVEDD staff. 4. Outline teaming strategies for the Coalition and its members. 5. Research and recommend digital equity grant opportunities, providing insights to MVEDD staff pursuing applications on behalf of the Coalition and area digital equity programs. 6. Conduct outreach and communications to strengthen the Coalition, including the planning, marketing, and coordination of at least two (2) digital equity convening sessions in the Mohawk Valley Region for Coalition members and digital equity partners. 7. Further develop and provide feedback to existing program-based partnerships with Community Anchor Institutions (CAIs) and organizations serving covered populations in the Mohawk Valley Region. 8. Join monthly Mohawk Valley Broadband Coalition calls led by MVEDD staff via Zoom. 9. Join bi-weekly calls with MVEDD staff to discuss project progress and priorities via Zoom. 10. Produce two (2) digital equity asset maps, one as a reference for Coalition members and the other as a reference for those seeking digital equity services. 11. Revisit surveys and other evaluative metrics to measure the Coalition’s collective definition(s) of “what is digital equity?” for the Mohawk Valley Region, strengths, gaps and trends that can seek to improve the Coalition’s strategy and approach. This process will be informed by Coalition subgroups (To be defined by the consultant: Examples may include County, CAI, covered populations) and aligned with a collective Coalition definition.
