Grant Award: North Carolina Central University Awarded $2.9 Million Dollars from NTIA for DELP Program

North Carolina Central University Partners with QDI Global LLC to Secure Prestigious NTIA Grant Award

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**North Carolina Central University Partners with QDI Global LLC to Secure Prestigious Grant Award**

*Durham, NC – [11-7-2022]* – North Carolina Central University (NCCU) proudly announces a significant achievement in its commitment to advancing research and innovation. The university has been awarded the NTIA CMC Grant following a successful proposal submitted in partnership with QDI Global LLC. The proposal, drafted by Mr. Derek Cooper, President of QDI Global LLC, has been selected for funding, marking a milestone in the collaborative efforts of these two esteemed organizations.

The grant project, led by Dr. Jon Gant, Dean of the NCCU School of Library and Information Sciences, aims to support digital equity in anchor communities by providing low-cost access to the internet. The Digital Equity and Leadership Program, will devise creative solutions to assist locals in the anchor communities who might not possess the digital literacy abilities required to look for, land, and keep a job as well as carry out other everyday chores. By supporting access to the internet and community development, DELP underscores the strength of research and innovation at NCCU. The successful proposal and award highlights the power of interdisciplinary collaboration.

“This award not only validates the groundbreaking work being done at NCCU but also reinforces the importance of collaborative efforts in driving forward meaningful progress in digital equity and community development.” said Dr. Johnson O. Akinleye, Chancellor at North Carolina Central University. “We are thrilled to receive this grant and thankful for the innovative framework that was submitted by Mr. Derek Cooper of QDI Global.” said Dr. Philliph M. Mutisya, Professor at North Carolina Central University and collaborator on the winning proposal.

Mr. Derek Cooper expressed his enthusiasm about the grant, stating, “It has been a privilege to work alongside North Carolina Central University on this proposal, and I am grateful for the guidance from both Dr. Gant and Dr. Mutisya. This collaboration reflects our shared vision of leveraging technology, innovation and research to create impactful solutions. We look forward to the outcomes of this project and its potential to benefit our communities.”

The funding will be utilized to infuse digital equity and access into the fabric of our communities, aligning with NCCU’s mission to foster innovation and community engagement.

For additional information about The Digital Equity and Leadership Program at North Carolina Central University, please visit the DELP website:

The DELP Program homepage

About the DELP Program

**About North Carolina Central University:**  

North Carolina Central University, located in Durham, NC, is a leading institution committed to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. With a rich history of fostering academic and professional growth, NCCU continues to be a catalyst for change and innovation.

**About QDI Global LLC:**  

QDI Global LLC is a technology consulting firm specializing in advanced technology solutions, research and development. QDI Global LLC is dedicated to leveraging technology to solve complex challenges and drive progress in various sectors.