TechCongress, a nonpartisan initiative, is using a $1 million investment from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation to “increase government knowledge of emerging technology issues and inform policymaking,” according to a Knight Foundation press release dated Nov. 2. To help close the tech knowledge gap on the Hill, TechCongress uses one-year Congressional Innovation Fellowships, which pair a tech expert with a member of Congress or congressional committee. With the new funding, TechCongress will be able to more than double its fellowship program; the group expects to grow its program from six to 16 fellows by 2020. Fellows are provided with training, professional development, and networking opportunities. “Through the initiative, fellows will educate congressional staff on technology issues, help shape legislation in this area, and update old practices with respect to organizational processes, technology, and security,” the press release explains. “Overall, the effort aims to grow the ecosystem of technologists in Congress and connect individuals working in government, civil society, academia, and technology,” TechCongress said.
