State program to distribute devices to Massachusetts organizations; early application due Oct. 30, final due Nov. 7

Caitlin Schubert, presenter, opened the session saying, "my name is Caitlin Schubert, and I'm gonna talk about our connected and online program today." The program, referred to in the presentation as CNO, is funded through the U.S. Department of the Treasury Capital Projects Fund and totals just over $23 million. Organizers said devices and some ancillary equipment will be purchased and shipped at no cost to awardees; no administrative reimbursement will be provided.

Applicants must be physically located in Massachusetts and serve Massachusetts residents. Eligible entities include municipalities, state agencies, tribal nations, nonprofits, philanthropic foundations, educational and health-care providers, community action agencies, career centers and libraries. Awardees must make devices available at no cost through one of two core deployment models: publicly accessible on-site computer stations (for example, in libraries, classrooms, career hubs or health centers) or a free-to-borrow lending program. Mobile or outreach lab models are acceptable if described in the application.

The application timeline: an early-application deadline is Friday, Oct. 30; the standard application deadline is Friday, Nov. 7; both close at 5 p.m. Award notifications are expected in late November or early December. Organizers encouraged applicants to submit early to receive feedback that can help cure deficiencies. Devices are expected to be deployed within three months of contract execution and awardees must retain ownership and make devices available for public access through Dec. 31, 2026 (organizers noted certain federal rules require asset records to be kept longer; see clarifying details).

Device mix and support: core devices offered include a Dell Pro 14 laptop, a Chromebook, a Dell Latitude 2-in-1 tablet and two types of desktops…