Mayor Indya Kincannon in her State of the City Address last month touted the "power of partnerships." That's especially true when it comes to growing businesses, empowering entrepreneurs and creating jobs.
Did you know that Mayor Kincannon's proposed 2022-23 City budget includes nearly $1.2 million to support Knoxville’s economic development partners?
City funding would go to support the Knoxville Chamber, KCDC, the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, Centro Hispano, 100 Knoxville, The Maker City initiative and the Spark Cleantech Accelerator.
In addition, the City is funding $300,000 to KUB’s Student Internet Access Program, which will provide free access to qualifying low-income student households.
"We all saw – during the pandemic – how access to high-speed, high-quality Internet became a defining factor in one’s ability to work, learn, connect with loved ones, and even to access health care," Mayor Kincannon said in her April 22 address.
"That’s why it is so exciting that KUB – with the support of City Council – will offer municipal broadband services to every electric customer, with the first homes scheduled to come online this year.
"I am especially proud of the City and KUB’s commitment to bridging the digital divide. This budget supports the Student Internet Access Program so low-income students aren’t left behind. Another example of the power of partnerships."
The proposed budget also includes nearly $5.8 million for core public safety partners, including the Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center, Family Justice Center, McNabb Center, Young-Williams Animal Center and E-911, and $1.5 million in Community Agency Grants to local non-profits providing services ranging from mental health and addiction treatment to youth-serving programs.