OpportunityTitle: Facilitating the Free Flow of Information
CategoryExplanation: D&amp;G Free Flow of Information
Description: The amounts and types of information made available during the internet era have been unprecedented throughout the world, but not in Cuba. The restrictions that the Cuban government has placed on the distribution of information, including access to the internet, have left many citizens yearning for greater access to unfiltered information. During the last 20 years, various independent CSGs and networks have been filling this void by distributing uncensored information and knowledge throughout the country. These initiatives serve as an alternative to state-sponsored sources of information. A number of independent CSGs and networks also provide a safe place where individuals can conduct research and analysis on a range of religious, literary, cultural, economic, and philosophical themes or topics. This program will build on previous efforts to expand and deepen independent groups&#239;&#191;&#189; and networks&#239;&#191;&#189; ability to provide a range of unfiltered information using a variety of methodologies. In addition to providing access to information and ideas developed outside the island, information should also feature information, articles and analysis developed by other independent sources in Cuba. The last few years have witnessed a significant increase in the amount of high-quality, locally produced information and analysis from a small but growing cadre of influential bloggers and independent journalists. Many of the articles produced by this group are published in international media outlets, yet very few Cuban citizens are able to access this information. Networks of independent CSGs are well-placed to serve as a platform for distribution of locally produced information and will greatly increase access to information developed on the island. It is expected that the program will support information dissemination using a range of traditional and new media technologies that can be found in the country. For example, USB drives, CDs and DVDs are relatively simple technologies that can store large quantities of data that can be easily shared. Information contained on these devices can be targeted to the interests of populations that civil society groups and networks serve. Selected websites can be cached and used for research purposes. Use of social media is small but growing, and it is expected that this program will increase the use of social media to reach broader segments of the population. Use of laptops as a platform for dissemination of information is expected to continue. While it is expected that some distribution of traditional print media such as books, magazines, newspapers and pamphlets will be supported, the focus of the program is on using and introducing the most appropriate technologies for achievement of program objectives. Materials provided through independent CSGs and networks should enable participants to make informed decisions about issues that affect them on a daily basis and help them think critically about local, national, and global events. In addition to providing information and analysis, it is envisioned that this program will promote services provided by independent CSGs and networks that facilitate the free exchange of ideas. A wide range of events and activities that are of interest to the communities may include (but are not limited to) the exchange and debate of ideas, discussions on topics of common concern, the presentation of plays and movies, lectures and book discussions, events for children and youth, other cultural activities. It is expected that this program will provide the training and technical assistance that will facilitate an increase of demand-driven activities which will promote community involvement and the development of social capital among individuals. It is expected that the program will build and strengthen the technical expertise of key individuals within the targeted CSGs and networks through training and other capacity building opportunities. Technical training could focus on the various aspects of information collection and distribution work including user services (assisting users find the information they need) and technical services (cataloging, preparing and classifying information). It is also expected that training will be provided on introducing and distributing new social media technologies, to better inform the Cuban public. The program will also provide leadership development services to key representatives within the targeted groups. As leaders are identified within these groups, their leadership capabilities will be enhanced, and this cadre of leaders will ensure the long-term sustainability of services that are provided. To the extent possible, the project should encourage opportunities among the various CSGs and networks to exchange ideas, resolve issues of common concern, and potentially pool resources to achieve common objectives. Through these opportunities, organizations should be able to better serve the evolving needs of their communities. Expected Results: &#239;&#191;&#189; Independent CSGs and networks serve as a platform to distribute unfiltered information throughout the island. &#239;&#191;&#189; Community members that these groups and networks serve have greater access to information on diverse issues such as democracy, human rights, and free-markets. &#239;&#191;&#189; Independent CSGs and networks provide community members with a range of innovative activities and services that encourage independent, critical thinking and the free exchange of information and ideas. &#239;&#191;&#189; A cadre of leaders within these CSGs and networks are identified and their technical, networking and leaderships skills developed so that they are well-placed to serve their communities&#239;&#191;&#189; information needs. RECIPIENT RESPONSIBILITIES Overview: Award recipients will retain overall management responsibility for all aspects of the program including management of all sub-agreements and sub-contracts. (See also section on Substantial Involvement.) In addition to adhering to the policies, laws, and regulations governing LAC/Office of Cuban Affairs assistance awards, recipients are also responsible for the following: &#239;&#191;&#189; General program management, including financial management, reporting, and provision of assistance to Cuban counterparts. &#239;&#191;&#189; In consultation with USAID, determining appropriate working and coordination relationships with other LAC/Office of Cuban Affairs program grantees and other U.S. and third-country non-governmental organizations working in Cuba. &#239;&#191;&#189; In consultation with USAID, finalizing the life-of-project and annual workplans , project-specific results framework , and performance management plan (PMP, formerly the monitoring and evaluation plan) covering all program components within 60 days of award. &#239;&#191;&#189; Designing and carrying out technical assistance programs set forth in the cooperative agreement and in other documents incorporated by reference. &#239;&#191;&#189; Identifying, managing, and supporting other essential programs and communications. &#239;&#191;&#189; Carrying out reporting and monitoring and evaluation responsibilities as described below.
GrantorContactEmailDescription: Paul Burford&apos;s email address
GrantorContactText: Paul Burford &lt;br/&gt;Contract Specialist &lt;br/&gt;Phone 202-567-5303