Thursday, September 21, 2023

๐ŸŒฑIMSPARK: Empowering Pacific Communities through Community-Based Economic Development (CBED) ๐ŸŒฑ

 

๐ŸŒฑImagine... Empowering Pacific Communities through Community-Based Economic Development (CBED) ๐ŸŒฑ

๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

Imagine Pacific Island nations ๐Ÿ️ fostering resilient and sustainable economies by investing in Community-Based Economic Development (CBED). Picture vibrant local businesses ๐Ÿข, empowered communities ๐Ÿ‘ฅ, and thriving ecosystems ๐ŸŒฟ, all contributing to a prosperous and resilient Pacific region.

๐Ÿ”— Link :

Learn more about CBED in the Pacific

๐Ÿ“š Source:

Pacific Islands Development Forum. (N.D).

๐Ÿ’ฅ What's the Big Deal:

The Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) collaborates with the Global Island Partnership (GLISPA) to establish the Island Resilience Initiative (IRI) in Pacific Island nations like Palau, Marshall Islands, and Fiji. ๐ŸŒŸThis initiative empowers local public-private civic partnerships to drive the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and global agreements.

IRI 1.0 focuses on strengthening collaborative partnerships for system-level change ๐Ÿ’ช and initiating the SDG framework for local implementation by 2030.

IRI 2.0 launches a project pipeline to catalyze investments in integrated infrastructure, supporting public-private civic partnerships. ๐ŸŽฏ It also establishes a peer-learning network coordinated by the Global Island Partnership and Hawai‘i Green Growth.

Successful stakeholder consultations in 2018 resulted in action plans for SDG implementation, ๐Ÿ“† frameworks for coordination, and prioritization of SDGs based on national needs. ๐Ÿ’ผ The Initiative aligns with regional development frameworks and international agreements, fostering resilience, sustainability, and economic prosperity in the Pacific.


#GLISPA,#EmpoweringCommunities,#SDG,#EconomicDevelopment,#PacificIslands,#Sustainability,#IMSPARK,#PIDF,#IRI,#CBED,

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

๐Ÿข IMSPARK: Communities Making Banks Accountable for Equitable Lending in the Pacific ๐Ÿข

 ๐Ÿข Imagine... Communities Making Banks Accountable for Equitable Lending in the Pacific ๐Ÿข

๐Ÿ’กImagined Endstate:

Picture a Pacific where communities wield the power to ensure fair and accessible lending practices utilizing tools like the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Performance Ratings.

๐Ÿ“šSource:

1.      FDIC (n.d.). Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Ratings Search.

2.      Federal Reserve Board, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, & Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. (2022, May). Community Reinvestment Act Proposal Fact Sheet.

๐Ÿ”—Link:

1.     https://crapes.fdic.gov/

2.     https://www.federalreserve.gov/consumerscommunities/files/cra-fact-sheet-20220505.pdf

๐Ÿ’ฅWhat's the Big Deal:

The charge of the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) is to drive transformative change, empowering underserved communities, often predominantly of color, lacking access to financial services. The CRA requires banks to reinvest in these communities, but its impact is broader through Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). These mission-driven entities bridge capital gaps for businesses in low-income regions, offering tailored financial support. ๐ŸŒ CDFIs could serve as beacons of hope in the Pacific, fostering economic viability where traditional banks may be absent. ๐Ÿ’ผ This approach narrows economic disparities and empowers communities, driving growth rooted in community-based economic development. The synergy of the CRA and CDFIs envisions a Pacific where enterprises could thrive and at the same time bolster economic stability and social justice with their investment.๐Ÿš€By leveraging the CRA and embracing CDFIs, the Pacific could reshape its economic landscape, creating opportunities, bolstering businesses, and revitalizing communities.

#EquitableLending, #EmpoweringCommunities, #CRA, #CDFI, #CBED,#Economics


Tuesday, September 19, 2023

๐Ÿ’ฐIMATRIX: Funding Opportunities๐Ÿ’ฐ

 

๐Ÿ’ฐIMATRIX: Funding Opportunities๐Ÿ’ฐ

 Ref: NSIN - October/September



Title

Description

Submission Deadline

Agency

Funding Available for Multiple Technologies

Innovators with technologies to address hybrid-electric power plant development; manufacturing capabilities in low earth orbit; the creation of an application for wildfire and water management informed by NASA data; orbital debris remediation and tracking; and mining and mineral processing may submit their solutions for the opportunity to receive up to $1 million in SBIR/STTR funding over three phases from NASA.

Sept. 21, 2023

NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Funding Available for Prototype Payloads Capture and Recovery Systems

Innovators with the ability to develop and demonstrate a prototype system to capture and recover exploitable payloads from slow-moving, high-altitude aerial systems may submit their solutions to DARPA for the opportunity to receive funding.

Sept. 21, 2023

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)

Funding Available for Robotic Technology Kernel Solutions (NEW)

Innovators with the ability to develop techniques and tools to securely run the Robotic Technology Kernel (RTK) software library on a high-assurance separation kernel may submit their solutions to the Army for the opportunity to receive funding.

Sept. 26, 2023

US Army

Funding Available for Mixed Reality Display Panels (NEW)

Innovators with low cost, high resolution medium format displays for mixed reality headsets may submit their solutions for the opportunity to receive up to $1.9 million in funding from the Army.

Sept. 26, 2023

US Army

Funding Available for Low-Cost Laser Sensors (NEW)

Small businesses with low-cost short-wave infrared (SWIR) laser sensors that could enable broader use of SWIR sensors in combat vehicles may submit their solutions for the opportunity to receive up to $1.9 million in funding from the Army.

Sept. 26, 2023

US Army

Funding Available for Digital Solutions to European Military Transport

Innovators from industry and academia may submit digital tools that would enable informed, coordinated military movement planning and execution may submit their solutions to NATO for the chance to win part of an $8,500 prize purse.

Oct. 5, 2023

NATO

Funding Available for Multilateral Autonomy Solutions

Innovators with the ability to improve artificial intelligence (AI)-based detection and classification of objects in still images and video, identify risk factors and improve facility location analysis, or leverage inputs from multiple types of sensors to create common operating picture of an environment may submit their solutions to win part of a $50,000 prize pool from the Palmetto Tech Bridge.

Oct. 31, 2023

NavalX Palmetto Tech Bridge

Funding Available for Multiple Technologies (Pre-Release)

Small businesses with innovations for autonomous systems, machine learning, cyber, cross-domain kill chains (connecting sensors and weapons across air, surface, and undersea domains), surveillance and reconnaissance, and non-traditional defense technologies may submit their solutions for the opportunity to receive funding from OUSD(R&E). This topic is in pre-release until it opens on Sept. 6.

Oct. 17, 2023

Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD)(R&E)

Funding Available for Nuclear-Related Research

Innovators with technologies supporting nuclear re-entry environments, materials characterization, explosion monitoring, and delivery devices may submit white papers for the opportunity to receive funding from AFRL.

Oct. 30, 2023

Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)

Funding Available for Multiple Technologies (NEW)

Innovators with technologies to support global navigation satellite system (GNSS) based tracking on previously unsupported frequencies or with compact systems to lift, load, and transport fully loaded pallets and containers may submit their solutions for the opportunity to receive funding from SOFWERX. Submissions open on Sept. 6 and close on Oct. 5. There will be an informational webinar on Sept. 7 (register by Sept. 6).

Oct. 5, 2023

SOFWERX


Monday, September 18, 2023

๐Ÿ›ฃ️IMSPARK: AV INCLUSION ACCESS INCREASED FOR DISABLED COMMUNITY (VIDEO)♿️

๐Ÿ›ฃ️IMAGINE... AV INCLUSION ACCESS INCREASED FOR DISABLED COMMUNITY♿️
 (VIDEO)



๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

Imagine a future where autonomous vehicles (AVs) revolutionize mobility for the disabled community, fostering unprecedented access and independence for all individuals. ๐ŸŒ

๐Ÿ”— Link:

https://www.uschamber.com/assets/documents/CTEC_InnovationHighwayReport_July23.pdf

๐Ÿ“š Source:

Innovation Highway. (July 2023). Unlocking the Social and Economic Benefits of Autonomous Vehicles.

๐Ÿ’ฅWhat's the Big Deal:

The integration of autonomous vehicles has the potential to be a game-changer for the disabled community and society at large. By providing enhanced accessibility and independence, AVs can empower individuals with disabilities to participate more actively in various aspects of life. ๐ŸŒŸThis transformative shift in mobility can lead to greater employment opportunities, improved access to essential services like healthcare and education, and a more inclusive and equitable society. ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Furthermore, as AV technology advances, it promises to reduce accidents, decrease emissions, and boost overall safety and efficiency, marking a remarkable leap toward sustainability and inclusivity! ๐ŸŒ


#DisabilitiesStudies,#Inclusion,#AutonomousVehicles, #AV,#Innovation,

Sunday, September 17, 2023

๐ŸŒŠ IMSPARK: Pacific Economies are seen as dynamic and valued globally. ๐ŸŒŠ

๐ŸŒŠ Imagine... Pacific Economies are seen as dynamic and valued globally. ๐ŸŒŠ



๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

๐ŸŒŠ Imagine a future where the Pacific harnesses its organic assets, depicted by ๐ŸŒฑscience and global warming, ๐ŸŽญculture and maritime legacy, and ๐ŸŸcontribution to the world's food sources, to counter economic projections and emerge as a dynamic and globally valued region.

๐Ÿ”— Link:

Visual Capitalist - Ranked: The Top Economies in the World (19802075)

๐Ÿ“š Source:

Lu, M. (2023, July 21). Ranked: The Top Economies in the World (19802075). Visual Capitalist.

๐Ÿ’ฅWhat's the Big Deal:

๐ŸŒ Beyond economic rankings, the Pacific possesses invaluable organic assets. ๐ŸŒŠ Its pioneering contributions to scientific research, depicted by ๐ŸŒฑ marine biology and climate studies, are vital for understanding and combating global warming. ๐ŸŽญ The region's rich cultural heritage, symbolized by ๐ŸŽจ indigenous art, promotes global diversity and sustainable living. ๐Ÿšข With a maritime legacy, , the ⚓Pacific fosters cross-cultural exchange. ๐ŸŸ Its oversight of its marine resources and sustainable fishing, contribute to the global food security. By embracing these organic assets, the Pacific can redefine its global influence, becoming a beacon of sustainability, cultural preservation, and scientific advancement, thus reshaping the world's perception of economic strength.

#PacificIslands,  #MaritimeLegacy, #Culture,  #PacificDiversity,#FoodSecurity, #ClimateChange, 

Friday, September 15, 2023

๐Ÿ›ฃ️IMSPARK: AV Creating More Access and Independence for the Disabled Community ♿️

  

๐Ÿ›ฃ️IMAGINE... AV Creating More Access and Independence for the Disabled Community ♿️



๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

Imagine a future where autonomous vehicles (AVs) revolutionize mobility for the disabled community, fostering unprecedented access and independence for all individuals. ๐ŸŒ

๐Ÿ”— Link:

https://www.uschamber.com/assets/documents/CTEC_InnovationHighwayReport_July23.pdf

๐Ÿ“š Source:

Innovation Highway. (July 2023). Unlocking the Social and Economic Benefits of Autonomous Vehicles.

๐Ÿ’ฅWhat's the Big Deal:

The integration of autonomous vehicles has the potential to be a game-changer for the disabled community and society at large. By providing enhanced accessibility and independence, AVs can empower individuals with disabilities to participate more actively in various aspects of life. ๐ŸŒŸThis transformative shift in mobility can lead to greater employment opportunities, improved access to essential services like healthcare and education, and a more inclusive and equitable society. ๐Ÿ‘ฅ Furthermore, as AV technology advances, it promises to reduce accidents, decrease emissions, and boost overall safety and efficiency, marking a remarkable leap toward sustainability and inclusivity! ๐ŸŒ


#DisabilitiesStudies,#Inclusion,#AutonomousVehicles, #AV,#Innovation,

Thursday, September 14, 2023

IMOA: Fostering Collaboration For Climate Security

IMOA (Imagine Pacific Original Article)


Fostering Collaboration: Matson and PREL's Crucial Role in Establishing the KASL Climate Security Research Station

BY Dr. Gregg Nakano, Ed.D, MALD, MGeo

8/9/2023 

We overcame significant logistical challenges to build the first KASL (1) Climate Security Research Station on Ebadon, a small island on the other side of the Kwajalein Atoll system.

What you may not know is the critical role that Matson and PREL played in that success. 
 
PREL has been working on a four-track education program to help Pacific Island youth based on: 

1-college prep, 

2-vocational skills, 

3-military prep, and 

4-traditional knowledge. 

Since 2017, PREL CEO Paul Hadik has supported the development of Pacific Allies, an experiential service learning program that helps students, cadets and midshipmen understand the climate impact on national security by transforming Kwajalein Atoll into a living sustainability laboratory.
With the support of PREL, Mayor Kabua, KALGOV, Dr. Eric Rasmussen, ONR and all of you - the Pacific Allies effort has slowly grown into KASL (Kwajalein Atoll Sustainability Laboratory), which was officially launched this Summer. 

Only one hiccup... 

Because all of this is done organically and out of hide, our outcomes are always "potluck" and only accomplished through trust, goodwill and sweat equity.

This Spring, as we prepared to build the Irene Paul KASL Climate Security Research Station, we were at a loss, because while the cost of the building materials was only around $8,000, the cost of the shipping would exceed $10,000. 

CEO Paul Hadik reached out to Matson Senior Vice President Vic Angoco to explain the purpose of KASL and how KALGOV was building a whole-of-society approach to strengthen climate security throughout the Pacific.

SVP Angoco immediately reached out to SVP Ku'uhaku Park, Director Government, Community Relations and Matson Giving. 

Working together with Dan Kenney, the KASL Climate Security Research Station designer and Gay Mathews, the Director of Philanthropy for Applied Hope, the non-profit partner to Infinitum Humanitarian Systems (IHS), Matson generously donated their expertise, networks and services to get our building materials from the mainland USA to Ebeye City on Kwajalein. 

As the Marshallese say - Jepilpilin ke ejukaan -
"Accomplishment through Joint Effort." 

Thanks to all of you for your blood, sweat, and tears in bringing KASL into existence. 

Special thanks to Matson for picking up the cost of transporting our equipment and construction materials - which provided us the tools to start.

Editors Note: This article celebrates the successful establishment of the KASL Climate Security Research Station on Ebadon, a small island within the Kwajalein Atoll system and the evolution of the Pacific Allies initiative, supported by PREL, Mayor Kabua, KALGOV, Dr. Eric Rasmussen, ONR, and collaborators, culminated in the launch of KASL. Dr. Nakano is a driving force behind many developmental and climate resiliency efforts in Kwajalein. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, a USMC Veteran, and Alumni of the University of Hawaii-Manoa.

                                            Ref: 

(1) Rasmussen, E., Nakano, G., Kabua, S., & Hatoum, A. (2022). Climate-Focused Field Research within the Kwajalein Atoll Sustainability Laboratory.



Wednesday, September 13, 2023

IMPRES (Imagine Pacific Presentations): United Nations Disability Inclusion Part 3 (VIDEO)

๐ŸŒ IMPRES: UNDIS Part 3: 

Applying the UN Disabilities Inclusion Strategy ๐ŸŒ 

(VIDEO)





๐ŸŒ Welcome back to Part 3 of IMPRESS (Imagine Pacific Presentations), where we continue our journey through the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy. In this episode, we focus on practical applications.
๐Ÿ” Understanding the Framework: We dive into the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy Accountability Framework, highlighting the crucial role of digital access within the "inclusion" category.
๐ŸŒŸ Empowering Participation: Explore how digital access empowers individuals with disabilities to actively participate in society. It amplifies their voices, enhances communication, and bridges geographical limitations.
๐Ÿ“Š Data for Impact: Discover how digital technologies enable efficient data collection, analysis, and dissemination. This is crucial for assessing disability, inclusion, and humanitarian contexts accurately.
๐ŸŒ Universal Design and Accessibility: Learn how universal design principles, accessibility, and reasonable accommodation are implemented by the UN to create inclusive digital platforms for everyone.
๐Ÿ‘‹ Closing Thoughts: As we wrap up Part 3 of IMPRESS, remember to like, subscribe, and explore more episodes on the Imagine Pacific Pulse (IMPULSE). Thank you for joining us on this journey of inclusiveness and digital access!
๐Ÿš€ Don't forget to scan the QR code on your screen for more content on the Imagine Pacific YouTube Channel.
Thank you for being a part of our inclusive community!


#ImaginePacific,#IMPRES,#Inclusion,#DigitalAccess,#UNDIS, #Accessibility, #ImaginePacificPulse,#DigitalEquity,#DigitalInclusion,#DisabilitiesStudies, 


Tuesday, September 12, 2023

๐ŸŽ“ IMSPARK: Pacific Island Educators Empowered with Innovative Education Program ๐ŸŽ“

 

๐ŸŽ“ IMAGINE - Pacific Island Educators Empowered with Innovative Education Program ๐ŸŽ“



๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

Envision a future where Pacific Island nations are transformed into hubs of educational excellence. The University of Hawaii's PACMED program empowers educators through a place-based, culturally responsive curriculum, fostering a network of agents of change committed to advancing education, culture, and sustainability.

๐Ÿ“š Source:

Dower, L. (2023, August 28). Pacific island students earn master’s degrees through UH’s PACMED program. University of Hawaii.

๐Ÿ”— Link:

Read more

๐Ÿ’ฅ What's the Big Deal:

๐ŸŽ“ Picture Pacific Island educators achieving master's degrees in education through PACMED. This program equips them with STEAM-focused skills, enhancing the quality of education across the region.๐Ÿซ Imagine a curriculum rooted in native languages, cultures, and traditions. PACMED ensures that educators understand local contexts, fostering meaningful connections between students and their heritage.๐ŸŒ The program's ripple effect extends beyond classrooms. Graduates become catalysts for positive change, addressing regional challenges like health issues, climate change, and sovereignty.๐Ÿค Envision a supportive network of educators, coordinators, and past cohorts. PACMED nurtures collaboration, enabling students to learn from each other and inspire progress. ๐ŸŒฑ These educators will address sustainability challenges, such as climate change and sea level rise. PACMED nurtures a new generation that's equipped to tackle pressing issues in each of their Pacific Island communities.

#EducationForAll,#GeographicalAccess,#PacificRegion, #PACMED,#IMSPARK,#Educators

Monday, September 11, 2023

๐ŸŒฑ IMSPARK: Pacific Nations Achieving Energy Self-Sufficiency through Renewables ๐ŸŒฑ

 

๐ŸŒฑ IMAGINE - Pacific Nations Achieving Energy Self-Sufficiency through Renewables ๐ŸŒฑ

 


๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

Picture a future where the Pacific island nations, often vulnerable to climate change, have transformed into beacons of sustainability. They harness abundant renewable energy sources, achieving energy self-sufficiency and contributing to a greener planet.

๐Ÿ“š Source:

Service, R. F. (2023, July 31). Electrified cement could turn houses and roads into nearly limitless batteries. Science.

๐Ÿ”— Link:

Science.Org

What's the Big Deal:

๐Ÿ️ Imagine Pacific island nations no longer relying on imported fossil fuels. With renewable technology, they become self-sufficient in energy, boosting resilience against economic and climate-related vulnerabilities.๐ŸŒž These nations are blessed with ample sunshine, wind, and ocean energy potential. By tapping into these resources, they reduce their carbon footprint and promote environmental conservation.๐ŸŒ The transition to renewable energy in the Pacific not only benefits the region but also contributes significantly to global efforts in mitigating climate change. It's a powerful example for the world.๐ŸŒฑ Sustainable Development: Energy self-sufficiency through renewables fosters economic growth, creates jobs, and improves living standards. It's a pathway to sustainable development, preserving these island paradises for future generations.

#selfsufficiency, #renewables, #Resilience, #AdaptableWorkforce, #IMSPARK, #PacificIslands,

Sunday, September 10, 2023

๐Ÿ“ฒ IMSPARK.... a Digital Lifeline for Pacific Islands๐Ÿ“ฒ

 

๐Ÿ“ฒ Imagine.... a Digital Lifeline for Pacific Islands๐Ÿ“ฒ


 ๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate:

Imagine remote communities in the Pacific Islands seamlessly accessing life-saving aid and vital information via innovative mobile phone technology during crises.


๐Ÿ“š Source:

USAID PUBLICATIONS. (2023, June 6). High-Tech Emergency Response. 

 

๐Ÿ”— Link:

USAID - High-Tech Emergency Response


๐ŸŒŸ What's the Big Deal:

 

In remote ๐ŸŒฑ Pacific Islands, crises like droughts and floods bring immense challenges. USAID's innovative emergency response, deploying mobile technology for efficient aid distribution, has reduced time and costs significantly ๐Ÿ“ˆ. This ensures rapid access to vital supplies, especially for geographically separated and their families ๐ŸŒ. Interactive voice messages provide weather forecasts and guidance on nutrition, health, and safety, empowering communities. This digital approach is transforming disaster resilience ๐ŸŒช️ in the Pacific Islands, with a profound impact on geographically separated and vulnerable families.


#USAID,#Technology,#DisasterResponse,#GeographicalAccess,#VulnerablePopulations,#IMSPARK,#PacificIslands, 

๐ŸŒ IMSPARK: Hospitals at the Forefront of Climate Resilience ๐ŸŒ

  ๐ŸŒ Imagine... Hospitals at the Forefront of Climate Resilience   ๐ŸŒ ๐Ÿ’ก Imagined Endstate : A future where hospitals are fully equipped to...