NEW BEDFORD – Four federal grants totaling $600,000 aim to enhance broadband adoption and support for small businesses and nonprofit organizations across Massachusetts.

Supported by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the grants will be distributed to four community-development corporations, each receiving $150,000 to provide technical assistance and resources for 40 small businesses and nonprofit organizations.

The Community Economic Development Center of Southeastern Massachusetts, located in New Bedford, was among grant recipients. Grants were also awarded to the Dorchester Bay Community Development Corp., Pittsfield Economic Revitalization Corp. and the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp. in Ware, Mass.

Of the $150,000 each community-development corporation will receive, the organizations will utilize $60,000 to provide technical training and support to small businesses and organizations in their service area for two years, and $90,000 to help small businesses purchase computers, software, broadband access and implement long-term strategic and sustainability planning. As part of the grant, each community-development corporation and small business will provide 25 percent in matching funds. •