In May 2001, at the Global Spatial Data Infrastructure (GSDI) meeting in Cartagena, Colombia, three like-minded organizations--the International Steering Committee for Global Mapping (ISCGM), GSDI, and Esri--joined forces to launch a major grant initiative for the development of national spatial data infrastructures. The resulting Global Map/Global Spatial Data Infrastructure (Global Map/GSDI) International Grant Program is intended to jump-start the development and distribution of national geospatial data as a backbone for supporting sustainable economic development.

The program is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Jack Estes, a GIS pioneer who envisioned a global program to assist developing countries in the creation and maintenance of their spatial data infrastructures. The initiative actively supports the expansion of the international programs of the GSDI and ISCGM organizations in their efforts to promote the sharing of spatial data.

Esri is underwriting the initiative with a comprehensive package of software, training, and support worth more than $5,000,000 (U.S.). It is anticipated that approximately 100 grants valued at $50,000 (U.S.) each will be awarded to support the building of national spatial data infrastructures throughout the world.

The application deadline is presently open, and agency representatives are encouraged to apply through their national mapping agencies or appropriate ministries. Grants will be made to only one government agency per country.

"Esri is pleased to be in a position to offer comprehensive support for the development of national geospatial data infrastructures," comments Jack Dangermond, Esri president. "I believe that the development and maintenance of a country's geospatial data is vital to achieving sustainable economic development throughout the world."

For additional information or to obtain an application, visit the Web site at www.esri.com/sdigrant.