The MTAP program is administered through SPC and its purpose is to provide computers and technology assistance to local governments by assisting municipalities with purchasing computer equipment, Internet access, and web site development, as well as helping municipalities meet their training needs.  SPC conducts technology assessments of the municipalities in the region to help develop these programs.  The results of the assessment are used as a tool to measure the level of which technology is used by local governments and to assist in designing programs that will increase our region’s use of technological resources.  Program funds are limited and will be distributed based on needs determined by the results of the assessment. 

The following is a list and brief description of the programs offered by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC).  Programs are open to all local government agencies in the nine-county Southwestern Pennsylvania region.

Computer Purchase Program
SPC offers financial assistance to local municipalities for the purchase of computers.  This assistance is offered to local municipalities that do not have computers or have less than four computers.  SPC will obtain a base price for the computers and subsidize the cost of that computer at two levels – one for those municipalities that do not have a computer, and one for those municipalities that have less than four computers.  All other municipalities can purchase the computers at the base price.
 
Technology Grant
SPC offers financial assistance to local municipalities for the purchase of new software or to obtain Internet access (for the first time) though a local Internet Service Provider (ISP).  Internet connections and software purchases prior to the date of the award letter will not be honored.

Website Development Assistance
SPC offers financial assistances to local municipalities to assist them with developing a municipal web site.  This assistance is only available to municipalities that do not currently have a website.   Municipalities must currently have a computer, Internet access, and have someone designated to serve as a Webmaster for the municipality. 

Computer Training
SPC offers financial assistances to local municipalities for computer-training courses.  Classes include training on Microsoft Word, Excel and QuickBooks. 

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For questions about the Municipal Technology Assistance Program, contact Jamie Colecchi at (412) 391-5590 x325 or e-mail jcolecchi@spcregion.org.

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