#government programs

[mossymagpie]

The Affordable Connectivity Programs funding is expected to end early this next year. For those who don't know it gives a lot of people free or reduced Internet services.

I receive a 30 dollar credit each month off of my bill, and even then my bill is still $50/month. This is really going to hit hard, especially for people who currently receive free WiFi through the program. It's important people have Internet access in their homes, and it's something a lot of people cannot afford to lose right now. While yes public WiFi is an option not everyone has the ability to get themselves around to places that offer it.

Spectrum has a link where you can send an email asking to extend the program here

You can also contact your state representative too. You can use this link to look up who your representative is.

This program saved me during the pandemic when I lost my job, and even if it loses funding I will be fine for now, but that is not the case for everyone, especially with the rising cost of bills and internet access in general.

[thenib]

Derek M. Ballard.

[californiastatelibrary]

Nothing says Valentine’s Day like the government quoting Shakespeare to warn you against STIs. We hope you get a kick out of this 1990 poster from our Gov Docs collection! 

Link to file: purl.fdlp.gov/GPO/gpo42651

[triangle-of-death]

Government programs

[dailydeclassified]

"How AI and Human Intelligence Work Together: The Story of a CIA Agent and an AI Bot in 1983"

Introduction:

As technology advances, the use of AI is becoming more and more common in different fields. One of the fields where AI is making a significant impact is intelligence gathering, and one story that stands out is that of a CIA agent and an AI bot. This blog will explore how AI and human intelligence can work together to achieve extraordinary results.

Section 1:

The CIA Agent and the AI Bot The story began when the CIA agent received an assignment to gather intelligence on a terrorist group that was planning a major attack. The agent knew that it was a challenging task that required gathering data from various sources and analyzing it to identify potential threats. However, time was limited, and the agent needed to act fast.

To help with the task, the agent was assigned an AI bot that could crawl the internet and collect data from various sources. The bot was programmed to identify specific keywords and phrases related to the terrorist group, which helped the agent to get a better understanding of the group's activities and plans.

Section 2:

The Benefits of AI in Intelligence Gathering AI is becoming more prevalent in intelligence gathering because of its ability to process vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently. In the case of the CIA agent, the AI bot was able to collect data from a variety of sources, including social media, news articles, and other online resources. The bot then analyzed the data and identified potential threats, which helped the agent to make informed decisions.

Section 3:

The Role of Human Intelligence in AI-Driven Intelligence Gathering While AI is a powerful tool for intelligence gathering, it has its limitations. AI algorithms are only as good as the data they are fed, and they lack the ability to interpret context and make judgments based on human intuition. This is where human intelligence comes into play.

In the case of the CIA agent and the AI bot, the agent was able to provide the necessary context and interpret the data collected by the bot. The agent's experience and expertise allowed him to identify potential threats that the bot may have missed, and to make informed decisions based on his analysis.

Section 4:

The Future of AI-Driven Intelligence Gathering The story of the CIA agent and the AI bot is just one example of how AI and human intelligence can work together to achieve extraordinary results. As AI technology advances, we can expect to see more collaboration between humans and AI bots in intelligence gathering and other fields.

However, it is important to remember that AI is not a replacement for human intelligence. Instead, it is a tool that can help humans to process and analyze vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently. In the future, we can expect to see more AI-driven tools and technologies that are designed to support human decision-making rather than replace it.

Conclusion:

The story of the CIA agent and the AI bot is a perfect example of how AI and human intelligence can work together to achieve extraordinary results. By leveraging the power of AI to collect and analyze vast amounts of data quickly, and combining it with human intelligence to provide context and interpret the data, we can make informed decisions that can help keep us safe in an ever-changing world. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more examples of AI and human intelligence working together to achieve great things.

https://dailydeclassified.blogspot.com/.../how-ai-and...

[biteitwhenitssoft]

Hi! Funding for the ACP ended in April 2024!

Yeah! This April is the LAST MONTH all of us relying on this program will be receiving any credit from it! The ACP was some kind of ONE TIME GRANT of money that has run out! "The ACP is managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and provides low-income households with $30 a month to purchase internet services and equipment. Since its creation, the ACP has provided over 23 million families, including over 366,000 in Massachusetts, with financial assistance for broadband access. However, due to the popularity of the program, ACP funding is estimated to expire in the coming year."

What can you do about this? Same as every damn problem in the United States! You just gotta email a representative! That's really all you can do!

I will say, cynicism aside, I emailed many of my own states officials and I did receive an email back from one of them, Senator Markey, claiming he and his colleagues ARE trying to do something about it. It's obviously going to take for fucking ever to get anything implemented, but at least they're actually aware of the issue and trying to fix it. "That is why on October 19, 2023, I joined my colleagues in urging congressional leadership to extend funding for the ACP and create a long-term solution for this critical program. In addition, in October 2023, I joined my colleagues in introducing the Promoting Access to Broadband Act (S.3024), which would establish a grant program for states to inform qualifying individuals of their eligibility for the FCC’s ACP and Lifeline programs." If you live in a different state, emailing your goverment officials may be even more important to getting these things passed.

I know every post on here is like "call your rep! call your rep!" but I actually emailed and got a response, so! Try it out! You can try these links to use pre-written emails.

Good luck.

Turns out with the Affordable Connectivity Program, ISPs CAN NOT shut off your internet.

Seriously. If you’re living in the US, and you’re at or below poverty line, sign up for the affordable connectivity program. it gives you like $30+ a month off your current internet bill and it makes it so they can’t disconnect you if you don’t pay them.

[auntbibby]

heres a video tour of the new basement suite i moved into, and an explanation of the annoying capitalist reason why i had to move...

hope u like it!

[jediaxis101]

[knacknews]

Read This To Learn All About Home Mortgages

TIP! Now is the time to try refinancing your home even if you are upside down on the mortgage. The Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) has been revamped to let homeowners refinance their home regardless of how underwater they are. To find the right home mortgage, you must understand what goes into a mortgage. How much knowledge do you have about home mortgages and its terms? The information…

[amira-g1234]

Explore Your Leadership Potential with MA in Political Leadership and Government at MIT-WPU

Master the art of Political Leadership with an immersive 2-year program by MIT-WPU. Gain in-depth knowledge, practical experience, and career prospects in various political spheres. Apply Now !

[longlistshort]

Moses Soyer’s oil painting, Young Girl, is one of the works on view in A New Deal: Artists of the WPA from the CMA Collection at Canton Museum of Art. The exhibition is a reminder of one of the best social programs ever created by the US government and the positive impact it had on the country during one of its hardest periods.

From the museum about the exhibition-

Against the backdrop of severe economic strife caused by the Stock Market Crash of 1929, President Franklin Roosevelt created the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which put roughly 8.5 million Americans, including more than 173,000 men and women in Ohio, to work building schools, hospitals, roads and more. Within the WPA was The Federal Art Project (FAP) which provided employment for artists to create art for municipal buildings and public spaces. The FAP had a non-discrimination clause that meant it attracted and hired artists of color and women, who previously received little attention in the art world. The only guidance the government offered about subject matter was to depict the “American scene” and stipulated no nudity or political issues. The goal was for artists to help the United States develop its own distinct American style of art, especially as artists in other parts of the world were forbidden freedom of expression and ordered to create artworks that projected the beliefs of their governments.

Though the WPA artists in the United States shared the common goal of capturing life in all its variety and promoting national pride, they each had different approaches, and many modified their typical subject matter to fit whatever project they were assigned. The arts before and after the New Deal relied on private patronage and the philanthropy of wealthy and elite institutions: galleries, museums, dealers. But during the WPA, art wasn’t a luxury good, it was seen as an essential part of our democracy. Artists were seen as professional workers who were making important and significant contributions to American life. The artworks made under the WPA became the collection of the American people and were put in public collections – hospitals, schools, post offices, housing projects, etc. – ensuring they were part of communities. The arts were seen as an important part of a democratic society and the American way of life, with a richness of experience and accessibility to culture.

While artists were offered opportunities through the WPA, they were far from immune to the distress caused by the Depression, and many still struggled to make a living. Will Barnet detailed a bleak scene he came across, saying:

“It was like a war going on. There were bread lines and men lined around three, four, five, six blocks waiting to get a bowl of soup. It was an extraordinary situation. And one felt this terrible dark cloud over the whole city.”

Moses Soyer also described the hardships artists experienced, saying,

“Depression–who can describe the hopelessness that its victims knew? Perhaps no one better than the artist taking his work to show the galleries. They were at a standstill. The misery of the artist was acute.”

The FAP supported the creation of thousands of works of art, including more than 2,500 murals that can still be seen in public buildings around the country. The FAP also supported art education and outreach efforts, including traveling exhibitions and art education programs for children. The WPA and FAP had a significant impact on the American art scene, and many of the artists who participated in the program went on to become important figures in the art world.

A New Deal: Artists of the WPA from the CMA Collection highlights the lives of artists from our Permanent Collection who worked for the WPA, and in doing so, fostered resilience for a struggling nation. You will learn about the projects they worked on, the subjects they were interested in, and how their own lives were affected by the Depression. Each of these artists helped to foster the nation’s spirit and prove that even in the darkest of times, art serves as a uniting force to collectively lead people into a brighter future.

And about Moses Soyer and his painting from the museum-

The Depression set the mood for most of Soyer’s art expression, and his portraits of people seem to be preoccupied with a sad secret. His portraits were often of solitary figures, using professional models or his friends, capturing in these paintings the spirit of his sitters, their dreams or disillusionment. He is best known for his introspective figure paintings of weary, melancholy women in muted colors, matching the mood of his sitters with the pigment in his paint. He was inspired by artist Edgar Degas, who used color expressively.

On the museum’s website you can find both the artwork on display for the exhibition and also a gallery of the museum’s entire collection organized into several categories.

[isprevolution]

Raising Capital for WISPs and ISPs: Beyond Grants

Introduction

The world of wireless internet service providers (WISPs) and traditional internet service providers (ISPs) is both dynamic and competitive. To thrive and expand in this space, companies often need substantial capital investment. While grants can be a valuable source of funding, they are not always guaranteed. In this blog post, we will explore best practices and potential sources for raising capital for WISPs and ISPs beyond grants. From traditional financing options to innovative strategies, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to help your internet business grow and succeed.

1. Equity Financing

One of the most common ways to raise capital for your WISP or ISP is through equity financing. This involves selling ownership shares (equity) of your company to investors in exchange for capital. Equity financing can be an effective way to secure the funds needed for network expansion, technology upgrades, and operational scaling.

Venture Capital (VC): VC firms are actively seeking opportunities in the telecommunications industry. To attract VC funding, your business should demonstrate strong growth potential, a clear market niche, and a solid business plan. Be prepared to offer equity in exchange for the capital infusion.

Angel Investors: Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to startups and small businesses. They often have industry expertise and can bring valuable insights in addition to funding. To attract angel investors, focus on building relationships within your industry and network, and craft a compelling pitch that highlights your business’s potential.

2. Debt Financing

Debt financing involves borrowing money that you will later repay with interest. This approach allows you to maintain full ownership of your business while obtaining the necessary capital. Here are some sources of debt financing:

Bank Loans: Traditional banks offer various types of loans, including term loans, lines of credit, and Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. Interest rates and terms can vary, so shop around for the best deal. A strong business plan and a good credit history are often required to secure bank loans.

Private Lenders: Private lending institutions, including online lenders and peer-to-peer lending platforms, provide alternative financing options. These lenders may offer more flexible terms and faster approval processes than traditional banks. However, interest rates can be higher.

Bonds: Municipal bonds or revenue bonds can be an option for WISPs or ISPs that serve specific geographic regions. These bonds are typically used to fund infrastructure projects and can be an attractive choice for community-based internet providers.

3. Strategic Partnerships

Forming strategic partnerships can provide not only capital but also access to valuable resources and expertise. Consider these partnership options:

Infrastructure Sharing: Partnering with other WISPs or ISPs to share infrastructure costs can be a cost-effective way to expand your network. This collaboration can lead to a win-win situation, reducing capital requirements for both parties.

Telecom Equipment Manufacturers: Collaborate with telecom equipment manufacturers to obtain favorable terms on equipment purchases, financing, or even co-development of customized solutions. These partnerships can enhance your technological capabilities and competitiveness.

4. Crowdfunding and Community Investment

Crowdfunding platforms have gained popularity as an alternative way to raise capital. Crowdfunding allows you to secure funds from a broad audience, including individuals who believe in your mission. Consider these crowdfunding options:

Equity Crowdfunding: Platforms like SeedInvest and StartEngine enable you to offer equity in your company to a crowd of investors. This can be an effective way to raise capital while gaining support from your customer base.

Rewards-Based Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow you to raise funds by offering backers rewards, such as early access to your services or branded merchandise. This can be particularly effective for WISPs and ISPs looking to fund specific projects or initiatives.

Community Investment: If your WISP or ISP serves a specific community, consider offering community members the opportunity to invest directly in your business. Community investment can foster strong customer loyalty and a sense of ownership among residents.

5. Strategic Grants and Subsidies

While this article focuses on capital sources beyond grants, it’s worth noting that some grants and subsidies specifically target the telecommunications industry. Look for grants that support rural broadband development, digital inclusion, or innovative technology projects. These grants can provide a significant financial boost while aligning with your business goals.

6. Revenue Generation and Retention Strategies

Increasing revenue and retaining existing customers can also free up capital for expansion. Implement the following strategies to maximize your income:

Upselling and Cross-Selling: Identify opportunities to offer additional services or upgraded packages to your existing customers. This can lead to increased monthly recurring revenue (MRR).

Customer Retention: Reducing churn and retaining customers for longer periods can boost your bottom line. Focus on providing exceptional customer service and addressing customer concerns promptly.

New Customer Acquisition: Invest in marketing and sales efforts to attract new customers to your network. Calculate the customer acquisition cost (CAC) and lifetime value (LTV) to ensure your efforts are cost-effective.

7. Government Programs and Subsidies

Government programs and subsidies, separate from traditional grants, can provide significant financial support to WISPs and ISPs. Explore programs such as:

Universal Service Fund (USF): In the United States, the USF is designed to promote universal access to telecommunications services, including broadband. Eligible companies can receive subsidies to expand and maintain their networks in underserved or rural areas.

Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF): The RDOF is a multi-billion-dollar program in the U.S. that supports the deployment of high-speed broadband to underserved and unserved rural areas. Participating in RDOF auctions can provide substantial funding opportunities.

Government Loans and Grants: Some governments offer low-interest loans or grants specifically tailored to broadband infrastructure development. Research the programs available in your region and consider applying.

Conclusion

Raising capital for WISPs and ISPs beyond grants is a multifaceted process that requires creativity, strategy, and persistence. While grants can be an excellent source of funding, don’t limit your options. Explore equity financing, debt financing, strategic partnerships, crowdfunding, and government programs to secure the capital needed for your business’s growth and success. Remember that a well-thought-out business plan and a clear vision for your company’s future are essential when seeking capital from any source. By diversifying your funding strategies and pursuing multiple avenues, you can strengthen your financial position and position your WISP or ISP for sustainable growth in the competitive telecommunications market.

Checkout more topics — https://isprevolution.io/blog/