Minority Telecommunications Development Program "Fact Sheet"

The Minority Telecommunications Development Program (MTDP) was established in 1978 to develop programs and policies that increase minority ownership of broadcast and telecommunications businesses. The following activities illustrate the contributions that MTDP makes to the growth and development of viable minority-owned telecommunications business in the United States:

• MTDP provides policy input for the development of legislation and regulations which affect minority business participation in the telecommunications industry.

• MTDP provides training for minority broadcasters. In 1990, MTDP implemented a management training program called ComTrain, for new minority commercial broadcast station owners and construction permit recipients. New owners are paired with the general managers of commercial stations owned by ComTrain corporate-sponsors, where they receive executive training and counseling tailored to their specific interests. Through ComTrain, MTDP offers free consultant services to trainees once their stations are on the air. ComTrain is funded by the Minority Business Development Agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

• MTDP researches and tracks minority ownership in broadcasting. With the support of public and private industry groups, MTDP develops minority ownership statistics, and a listing of minority- owned commercial radio and television stations in the U.S., entitled Analysis and Compilation of Minority-Owned Commercial Broadcast Stations in the United States.

• MTDP distributes a packet of materials, which includes a listing of financial and technical assistance organizations, sample business plans, and other useful information.

• MTDP examines trends and business opportunities in telecommunications for minority entrepreneurs, through brainstorming sessions, conferences and other industry networking activities.

• Check out The Minority Telecommunications Development Program website
  

For more information e-mail:

Tatia Williams, Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary and Acting Director MTDP
(twilliams@ntia.doc.gov)

LaVern D. James, Telecommunications Policy Analyst
(ljames@ntia.doc.gov)

or contact:

U.S. Department of Commerce
National Telecommunications & Information Administration
The Minority Telecommunication Development Program
14th Street & Constitution Avenue, N.W., Room 4725
Washington, D.C. 20230
voice: (202) 482-1880
fax: (202) 482-6173

last updated: 6/16/98

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