Detroit announces the certification of its first eight tech hubs and the launch of an interactive map to help residents access digital literacy resources. The initiative aims to provide equitable access to essential digital skills training and tools for all residents.
Detroit Launches Certified Tech Hubs to Bridge the Digital Divide
( Credit to: Clickondetroit )
Detroit has taken a significant step towards closing the digital divide by announcing the certification of its first eight tech hubs. Led by the Office of Digital Equity and Inclusion, this initiative aims to provide equitable access to essential digital literacy resources and tools for all residents.
The certification process ensures that these tech hubs meet specific criteria to offer a safe and reliable environment for residents to access the internet and improve their digital skills. Locations must provide free Wi-Fi, have devices available for residents to use, offer essential digital literacy training software, and be considered a safe environment. Each tech hub is also assessed to determine the digital equity resources and tools it provides.
Among the first locations to be granted certification are partners like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (BGCSM) and Comcast Lift Zones. These partnerships aim to provide internet access and support for digital skills training to Detroit residents. Comcast Lift Zones alone make up three of the first eight certified tech hubs.
Interactive Map Connects Detroit Residents with Digital Literacy Resources
Detroit has also launched an interactive map on the Office of Digital Equity and Inclusion website to help residents easily find and access digital literacy resources. This map allows residents to locate the nearest certified tech hub and learn about the resources and tools offered by each hub.
The interactive map is an essential tool in promoting digital equity and inclusion for all residents. It aims to register a minimum of 30 Certified Tech Hubs citywide, ensuring that the 220,000 residents currently at or below the poverty line in Detroit have access to the necessary resources to succeed in a digital world.
Closing the Digital Divide with Certified Tech Hubs
The certification of tech hubs and the launch of the interactive map demonstrate Detroit's commitment to closing the digital divide. By certifying tech hubs, the city ensures that residents have reliable and safe places to access the internet and improve their digital skills.
Christine Burkette, the Digital Equity and Inclusion Director, emphasized the importance of certifying tech hubs and encouraged organizations nationwide to apply. This partnership between the City of Detroit, community stakeholders, and organizations like Comcast and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan is a significant step towards promoting digital equity and inclusion for all Detroit residents.
