ESRI, a developer of geographic information system (GIS) software, announced that applications will be accepted until April 30, 2002, for the Global Map/Global Spatial Data Infrastructure (GSDI) Grant program. The program has attracted interest from national mapping agencies throughout the world. It was established in memory of GIS pioneer John E. Estes, who died in 2001.

ESRI is underwriting the program 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 in countries around the world. The program will also promote the sharing of geospatial data to expand the GSDI movement. The first grants will soon be awarded. National mapping agencies or appropriate ministries throughout the world are encouraged to apply. Grants will be made to only one government agency per country.

The GSDI grant program was launched at the 2001 Global Spatial Data Infrastructure meeting in Cartagena, Colombia, on May 23, 2001. For additional information or to obtain an application, visit the Web site at http://draft/industries/internationaldev/grants/index.html.