Intel and USAID Commit to Broaden Technology Access in Emerging Markets

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 8, 2007 – Intel Corporation and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) are working together to broaden access and usage of information and communications technology (ICT) in developing communities around the world. The organizations signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), identifying three areas of common focus: increasing the use of ICT in education, enabling last mile Internet connectivity and supporting ICT usage by small- and medium-sized businesses to enhance economic development opportunities.

Intel and USAID share the belief of the importance of ICT in accelerating social and economic development in emerging markets. The two organizations have been working together to develop successful community projects in developing communities preceding the MOU, such as installing WiMAX technology in Vietnam. In 2006, Intel, USAID and Vietnam Data Communication Company worked together to install WiMAX technology in Lào Cai, a city in the mountainous, rural northern Vietnam where telecommunications services are limited. WiMAX offers access to cost-efficient broadband internet and Voice over IP telephony for Lào Cai’s citizens, who depend on good communications to build robust economic relationships with neighboring trading partners. Successful project engagements and technology deployments such as these help create a model from which Intel and USAID plan to extend that relationship more broadly.

“This cooperation brings together USAID’s extensive network and experience in developing communities with Intel’s technology leadership and strong relationship with local industries in emerging markets,” said John Davies, vice president of the Intel World Ahead Program. “Synergy from the strengths of the two organisations will amplify our individual efforts in using technology as the catalyst for growth in developing communities, expanding what’s possible for citizens in these communities.”

“USAID believes in the long-term and sustainable benefits that information and communications technologies bring to developing communities around the world,” said Juan Belt, director for Office of Infrastructure and Engineering, USAID. “Our collaboration with Intel exemplifies the importance of public-private partnerships to more broadly extend the benefits of ICT to underserved communities. These benefits include improvements to the business environment, education opportunities, availability of medical services and ultimately the lives of citizens in these communities.”

Intel’s involvement with USAID is part of the Intel World Ahead Program – the company’s comprehensive approach aimed at bringing uncompromised technology to everyone, anywhere in the world, integrating and extending the company’s efforts to advance progress in four areas: accessibility to PCs, connectivity, education and content.