The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) has recognized the City of Austin as a 2024 Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer, highlighting its commitment to advancing digital equity and closing the digital divide.
Austin joins a record-breaking group of 60 municipalities, counties, and regional governments honored this year for their efforts to create digitally inclusive communities. The NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers program identifies local governments that are leading the way in ensuring all residents have access to affordable high-speed internet, devices, and digital skills training—key factors for thriving in today’s technology-driven world.
“We are immensely proud of our Community Technology team’s efforts to ensure digital access for all Austinites,” said Anthony Segura, Interim Director of the Economic Development Department. “This recognition affirms our commitment to providing the tools and resources needed for residents to confidently navigate the digital landscape.”
“In the past decade, we’ve seen local governments step into the important role of building digital inclusion ecosystems, where organizations that provide services can connect and thrive,” said Angela Siefer, NDIA executive director. “NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers celebrates these critical efforts to bring digital opportunities to all residents.”
Austin earned its Digital Inclusion Trailblazer status through programs and initiatives designed to expand digital access, including:
- Grant for Technology Opportunities Program: A City-funded grant that supports local organizations providing access to computers, digital skills training, and affordable internet for all Austinites.
- Community PC Program: Retired City devices and donated technology are refurbished and distributed to nonprofit organizations, increasing access to digital tools for underserved communities.
- Digital Empowerment Community of Austin (DECA): A collaborative network of organizations and advocates in Central Texas dedicated to advancing digital equity through shared learning and joint initiatives.
- Computer Labs & Digital Literacy Training: The City manages multiple public access computer labs and, in partnership with Austin Free-Net, provides free digital literacy training to help residents develop essential technology skills.
- Regional Digital Equity Research with Travis County: A joint effort between the City of Austin and Travis County to assess digital resource needs and inform equitable technology policies for the Central Texas region.
Since 2016, NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers initiative has set a national standard for excellence in digital inclusion. Each awardee undergoes a rigorous verification process, and their programs are highlighted on an interactive map and searchable database on NDIA’s website, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration across communities.
To learn more about the Economic Development Department’s Community Technology, visit the Community Technology website.
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About National Digital Inclusion Alliance: NDIA advances digital equity by supporting community programs and equipping policymakers to act. Working collaboratively with more than 1,900 digital inclusion practitioners, NDIA advocates for equitable broadband access, tech devices, digital skills training, and tech support. For more information, visit digitalinclusion.org.
About the City of Austin Economic Development Department
The City of Austin Economic Development Department supports business growth, creative industries, and local communities. These programs build an equitable, sustainable economy to improve the lives of all Austin residents. To learn more about helpful resources, visit www.austintexas.gov/edd and subscribe to our newsletter. Connect with us @AustinEconDev on Facebook, @AustinEconDev on X, and @AustinEconDev on YouTube.
Información sobre del Departamento de Desarrollo Económico de la Ciudad de Austin
El Departamento de Desarrollo Económico de la Ciudad de Austin fomenta el crecimiento empresarial, las industrias creativas y las comunidades locales. Estos programas construyen una economía equitativa y sostenible que enriquecen las vidas de los habitantes de Austin. Para obtener más información acerca de recursos útiles, visite www.austintexas.gov/edd y suscríbase a nuestro boletín. Conéctese con nosotros en @AustinEconDev en Facebook y @AustinEconDev en X y @AustinEconDev en YouTube.