January 12, 2022 — Round One of the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) was launched in November 2021 to provide quick funding to state departments to invest in technology modernization. The Fund works in concert with the Project Approval Lifecycle and Service Stabilization efforts intended to help state government find the best path to delivering efficient, effective and equitable services to California residents.
During the inaugural application period, state departments submitted 21 project applications for evaluation of their suitability for a TMF award or other assistance. Five of these projects were selected to pitch their ideas to a committee comprised of business executives from other State agencies and departments. Following a “pitch day” the following projects were selected to move forward:
The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation will develop a method to integrate state HR systems with commercial job boards and industry standard recruitment platforms. This project will expand awareness of CDCR positions and smooth out the process for applicants and state staff alike. The solution is expected to serve as a proof of concept that can be extended to other state departments. The estimated budget is $3.5 Million over 2 years.
The California Environmental Protection Agency will develop a geospatial dataset for the California Unified Program Agencies that protects Californians from hazardous waste. The dataset will allow the state to more quickly respond to emergencies by identifying locations and jurisdictions of hazardous materials incidents. The estimated budget is $1.5 Million. The platform will be developed in about 6 months with the data being fully populated within one year.
The Department of Food and Agriculture will update and move on-line the system that tracks companies who can test and repair weight and measurement equipment. Currently, there are nearly 1.85 million commercial weighing and measuring devices registered in California from grocery scales to electric meters to gas pumps. An accurate database helps companies find a certified agent who can quickly get faulty equipment back online, saving time and lost revenue for the business. The estimated budget is less than $1 Million, with a Minimum Viable Product expected in production in a few months.
The Department of Consumer Affairs Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology & Hearing Aid Dispensers Board will implement online capability for application, processing, and payment for 13 license types that are currently done on paper. The project budget is about $400,000. The first license type should be implemented within six months, with the other 12 types following over approximately one more year.
Work will begin on these projects in January 2022. The next application period for the TMF program will open by Spring 2022.