As we observe Digital Inclusion Week, we confront the reality of a persisting digital divide within the United States. While the data and digital revolution have reshaped our lives, millions of Americans remain on the wrong side of this divide, lacking equitable access to the digital economy.
We are passionate about telling these data and impact stories through the work we are providing to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)'s Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives (OMBI) and Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth (OICG). If you're on LinkedIn, we encourage you to visit the Department of Commerce post in honor of Digital Inclusion Week.
The Digital Divide in Numbers
- Broadband Access: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reported that in 2022, approximately 14.5 million Americans lacked access to fixed broadband internet with speeds of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up.
- Device Ownership: The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) revealed that in the same year, a staggering 23 million Americans lacked a reliable home internet-connected device.
- Digital Skills: In 2022, the Pew Research Center found that approximately 38 million Americans lacked basic digital skills, underscoring the importance of digital literacy in our society.
Signs of Progress
Despite these disparities, there are encouraging developments:
- Federal Investment: In 2022, the Biden administration committed $65 billion to broadband infrastructure, with the ambitious goal of connecting all Americans to high-speed internet by 2026. Collaborating with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), Kaptivate has documented the broad impact of these investments on both the national economy and digital equity, especially in underserved communities.
- The Digital Equity Challenge Fund: In 2023, the FCC introduced the Digital Equity Challenge Fund, a $2.75 billion initiative aimed at empowering communities to innovate and address digital disparities.
- Digital Inclusion Trailblazers: Also in 2023, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance launched the Digital Inclusion Trailblazers program, recognizing local governments for their exceptional leadership in advancing digital equity.
A Path Forward
While substantial progress has been made, challenges remain. Here are several key activities essential for overcoming access barriers:
- Education and Training: Promoting digital literacy through access to digital skills training and career technical education is essential to foster full participation in the digital economy.
- Affordable Access: Even when infrastructure and knowledge are acquired, affordability presents a final hurdle . Collaboration between policymakers and service providers can help take this last stride..
- Community Collaboration: Continuing collaborations between local governments, nonprofits, and businesses will drive innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of rural, tribal, minority, and indigent communities.
