Digital Equity

Tech and Internet Access

In today’s digital economy, access to technology and the Internet is critical for employment, education, connection, and entertainment, and yet nearly one-fourth of the U.S. rural population — 14.5 million people — lack access. And, nearly one-third of the population in tribal areas lacks access. Learn how you can support efforts to expand broadband access.

Ethics and Privacy

As people spend more time online, it increases the chances for personal information to be harvested by technology. Learn more about the ethical considerations of expanded technology use.

Digital Equity in the Workforce

Technology is rapidly evolving, but many Americans are lacking the digital skills to remain competitive in the workforce. Approximately one in three American workers have limited digital skills and one in six Americans are unable to use email, web search, and other basic functions. Learn more about how digital literacy is a barrier to digital equity.

Tech and Education

 Nearly one in five teenagers in the U.S. said they had been unable to complete homework assignments due to a lack of a reliable Internet connection. Online learning during the pandemic highlighted how critical technology is for students’ education. Discover how lack of access to technology and the Internet is critical for ensuring student success.

Philanthropy and Digital Equity

The Digital Equity space is a new and rapidly growing field. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides $65 billion in investments for broadband and digital inclusion with over  $2.75 Billion allocated over five years for the Digital Equity Act  to provide digital skills training, improve online accessibility, and empower rural communities to measure and address their own broadband needs. Funding will become available in 2023, but government officials, nonprofit leaders and private donors should start thinking about how to maximize resources in this emerging sector. In this section, you will find resources to help you understand the digital divide and how to take action to expand digital access.