Digital Equity & Inclusion

Digital Equity is a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy and economy.  Digital Equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services. 

Current work and discussions about digital equity and inclusion are to grow and strengthen the digital inclusion ecosystem throughout Door County. 

• • Access-promotes the availability of reliable, broadband technology through stakeholder outreach and engagement. Advances the online accessibility of public resources and services. 

• • Affordability – promotes awareness of existing programs that help low-income households afford broadband service. Offers Internet equipment and software at low or no cost. 

• • Adoption and equity- Narrows adoption disparities across covered populations by engaging with diverse stakeholders. Implements digital inclusion programs that include digital skills and literacy training, technical support and workforce development. 

The focus on outreach of covered populations under the BEAD DEI work are:

• Households with incomes below 150% of the federal poverty level

• Aging individuals, 60 years of age or older

• Incarcerated individuals except those in Federal correctional facilities

• Veterans

• Individuals with disabilities

• Individuals with a language barrier, including English learners and those with low levels of literacy

• Members of racial or ethnic minority groups; and

• Individuals who primarily reside in a rural area

Digital inclusion activities planned and implemented under Federal programs build towards achieving digital equity. The programs also support the IIJA Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s broader goals of improving access, affordability and adoption.