Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and the Louisiana Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity (ConnectLA) have announced an $18 million initiative aimed at expanding access to computers, digital education and workforce development opportunities across the state.
The initiative, known as Project ÉTOUFFÉE, was announced Tuesday, November 10, during the Louisiana Digital Skills and Technology Summit in Alexandria.
Through a partnership with Apple, 11 Louisiana organizations will receive more than 25,000 Mac computers and iPads to help residents access educational resources, employment opportunities and essential online services.
The Louisiana Community and Technical College System will receive the largest allocation, approximately 13,000 devices. The system plans to expand distance learning opportunities to residents in 10 parishes that currently lack adult education facilities.
The program is designed to assist rural residents, veterans, individuals with disabilities and adults seeking employment who may face financial barriers to accessing technology.
Participating organizations will provide access to devices through lending programs, public computer labs and educational and workforce training initiatives. Digital skills instruction will also be available to help residents complete coursework, apply for jobs and access telehealth services.
Recipients include the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, Bastion Veterans Wellness Center, Franklin Parish, Pointe Coupée Parish, Savoy Medical, Southeastern Louisiana University, Southern University and A&M College, Southern University at New Orleans, the Town of St. Joseph, the Town of White Castle and West Ascension Parish Hospital.
Project ÉTOUFFÉE is being administered by ConnectLA using funding from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund, in collaboration with Apple, SHI and the Louisiana Office of Technology Services.
State officials say the initiative will complement Louisiana’s ongoing broadband expansion efforts by helping residents obtain the technology and skills needed to take advantage of increased internet connectivity.
