The city of Austin has been recognized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) as a Digital Inclusion Trailblazer for 2023. This year, Austin is one of 47 honorees, including municipal, county, and regional governments across the country, all acknowledged for their contributions to the development of digitally inclusive communities.
Austin's recognition comes on the back of several initiatives aimed at promoting digital equity. According to a press release by the city of Austin, these include grants for the Technology Opportunities Program that supports non-profits involved in digital equity work, and a Community PC Program that refurbishes computers for community use. The city has also collaborated with community partners like Austin Free-Net on digital literacy training programs and provided digital navigation and one-on-one computer support.
"We are honored to be recognized by NDIA for this award for the third year in a row," said Rondella Hawkins, Austin’s Telecommunications and Regulatory Affairs Officer. "I'm proud of our team for championing leading practices towards digital equity. These efforts would not be possible without the unwavering support from City management, elected officials, and community partners to foster a digitally inclusive Austin for all. Providing opportunity is essential to a thriving community!"
Angela Siefer, NDIA executive director, highlighted the importance of collective effort in achieving digital equity. "Nonprofits, libraries, churches, and other community organizations can’t reach digital equity on their own. For everyone to thrive in today’s digital world, we need all hands on deck," Siefer said. "NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers exemplify the key role local governments have in building connected communities for all of their residents."
According to its About webpage, NDIA works towards promoting digital equity by supporting community programs and providing policymakers with tools to address this issue. The organization focuses on backing grassroots digital inclusion efforts, advocating policies at various government levels, educating stakeholders about the importance of digital equity, and conducting or supporting research to inform public understanding and policy decisions related to digital inclusion.