June 18, 2024
Phoenix’s plan, if approved, would add a new section to the city code to provide the rules for licensing and transactions between the city and companies who build and operate fiber-optic networks.
Jun 14, 2023
The Biden administration on June 12 announced it will send $714 million to help rural areas in 19 states connect to the internet, including $25 million for the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
The Community Broadband Networks (CBN) initiative is a program of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, a national research and advocacy nonprofit focused on fighting corporate control and building an American economy driven by local priorities. CBN works with a diverse group of allies, partners, and local communities on policies to improve local Internet access. We also research and document what communities around the country are doing to improve access to high-quality broadband networks.
A collective public/private campaign aimed at eliminating the gap between Tucsonans who have access to telecommunications – and the educational, economic, and social advantages connectivity brings – and those who do not. A project fund of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, the coalition for Tucson Connected works together to deliver strategies that reduce and eliminate historical barriers to technology access and use.
T-Mobile has taken steps to address digital equity through its "Project 10 Million," which offers free internet access and mobile devices to eligible students and their families. The program aims to bridge the homework gap and provide equitable access to educational resources.
Televerde Foundation’s mission is to provide currently and formerly incarcerated women with the personal and professional development programs necessary to successfully join and advance in the global workforce. Their approach inspires creativity, imagination, self-confidence, and social skills while addressing issues that cause recidivism. They enable women to break the generational cycle of poverty and incarceration by becoming positive role models to change the lives of future generations and build stronger communities.
The Rural Arizona Development Council supports rural development initiatives and addresses the unique challenges faced by rural communities in Arizona. They promote economic growth, community development, and the well-being of rural residents.
RefurbIT is an initiative of the ACHIEVE Enterprise Services, a full-service electronic recycling center that is an industry leader in converting obsolete computer electronics into reusable and refurbished products and provides refurbished IT equipment at discounted prices. RefurbIT serves Yuma, San Luis, Somerton, Wellton, Gadsden, Parker, Quartzsite, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Casa Grande, and Maricopa.
PCC offers a wide range of academic programs, from certificate courses to associate degrees. With a commitment to educational excellence and community engagement, Pima Community College provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education opportunities. The institution plays a pivotal role in workforce development, lifelong learning, and in helping students achieve their academic and career aspirations.
Maricopa Community Colleges provide digital literacy training and workforce development programs, including certifications and vocational training. They offer educational opportunities to enhance career prospects and meet the evolving needs of the job market.
Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona is a statewide organization that offers workforce development programs, job training, and employment placement services. Their focus is on assisting individuals with barriers to employment, providing them with the necessary skills and resources to secure meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities.
Cox is committed to promoting digital equity through various programs and initiatives. One of their notable programs is Connect2Compete, which aims to bridge the digital divide by offering affordable internet access and devices to low-income families with school-aged children. Connect2Compete provides discounted internet service plans, digital literacy training, and access to affordable devices, ensuring that students have the tools and connectivity they need to succeed academically. Cox is a provider of the Affordable Connectivity Program and also works in collaboration with community organizations on STEM programs and engages in robust community outreach.
Chicanos Por la Causa is a statewide organization that provides digital literacy, workforce development, and community empowerment programs. CPLC provides digital and financial literacy training and access to technology resources. Through their workforce programs, CPLC provides job training, career counseling, and employment placement services to empower individuals and promote community development.
The Boys and Girls Club has a strong presence in communities across Arizona. They provide comprehensive support to young people, including digital literacy training and workforce development programs. Through their clubs and after-school programs, the Boys and Girls Club offers access to technology resources, mentors, and educational opportunities that equip youth with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the digital age.
AT&T has been involved in numerous initiatives related to digital equity. Through its "AT&T Connect All" program, the company aims to bridge the digital divide by providing affordable internet access and devices to underserved communities. AT&T also offers workforce training programs and supports STEM education initiatives.
The Arizona Technology Access Program, in partnership with Achieve Human Services and RefurbIT, offers free or low-cost technology devices and items needed for disabled Arizonans to participate in the digital world. Their services include free or low-cost technology and medical devices, low-interest technology loans, user training and demonstrations, loaner programs, and digital workforce training. AzTAP serves the entire state of Arizona from its Phoenix-based program.
Arizona State University works to advance digital equity in Arizona. The university offers a range of programs including workforce development, financial and digital literacy, disability services, career services, and research initiatives related to technology and innovation. ASU’s robust community outreach programs, research collaborations, and innovative partnerships, seek to address the barriers faced by underserved communities including challenges related to accessing and utilizing technologies.
The ARSA supports and advocates for the unique needs of rural schools in Arizona. ARSA promotes digital equity, job training for educators, and community engagement in rural education. They bridge the digital divide by advocating for reliable internet access and equal opportunities to technology. ARSA provides job training programs and resources to empower educators with technology integration skills. Through community collaborations, ARSA strengthens the connection between schools and the local population, enhancing education quality and creating thriving learning environments for rural students.
Arizona’s 230+ Public Libraries are statewide institutions that provide various resources and services to the public. They offer free computer access, digital device and navigation training, and some provide digital workforce training classes. Public libraries play a vital role in promoting digital literacy and providing access to technology for all residents.
Arizona Students Recycling Used Technology collects, sorts, reuses, refurbishes and recycles all electronics. Our mission is to improve the competitiveness of Arizona’s technical workforce while protecting our environmental resources.
AARP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for older adults. AARP has undertaken several initiatives to promote digital equity among older adults including research and awareness, education and training, and policy advocacy.
The YWCA is committed to empowering women, eliminating racism, and promoting social justice. The YWCA provides digital literacy and workforce development programs to individuals of all backgrounds. They provide training and resources to enhance digital skills, promote career advancement, and foster economic self-sufficiency. The YWCA's holistic approach ensures that women and their families have the tools and support needed to thrive in an increasingly digital society.
This collection of videos and FAQs will help you gain the digital skills you need to use technology. Learn how to access information and find resources to keep your family safe and healthy.
The Erate “Special Construction” projects enable educators to dramatically enhance their professional development capabilities and communities will be transformed by the cultural and economic benefits of simply being connected to the Internet.
Learn how to use technology for everyday tasks, finding a job, building new skills, and keeping you and your family healthy.