Happy Digital Inclusion Week Seattle!
The first week of October is Digital Inclusion Week. This week raises awareness about digital equity and why inclusion matters as more of daily life moves online.
Seattle’s Digital Divide
Seattle and nearby communities face a deep digital divide. Many residents have strong tech skills. They can use technology to reach City services, and they have the time and resources to speak up for their needs.
Other residents struggle to get the services they need. Many come from communities that have faced unfair treatment for generations. They often lack the resources, the time, and sometimes the language to speak up for their communities. The City of Seattle works to serve both groups. Our goal is to provide fast, high-quality services while treating every resident with respect and working with communities as partners.
A Long-Term Commitment to Digital Equity
For almost three decades, the City of Seattle has worked steadily to close the digital divide. The results show what sustained effort can do:
Technology Matching Fund Grants Open October 15
Next week, on Thursday, October 15, our yearly grant cycle opens for the next round of Technology Matching Fund (TMF) grants. This year, each winning project may receive up to $45,000. These grants support projects that help close the digital divide and help community members take part in online life.
New Challenges Ahead
Federal funding for many digital equity services is shrinking. As a result, state and local governments and their nonprofit partners must step in and do more.
At the same time, technology keeps changing. We face new issues, including:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- New cybersecurity threats
- The effects of technology on mental health
More and more, our nonprofit partners carry the work of filling these gaps.
Seattle’s Ongoing Commitment
The City of Seattle will continue this work. We will keep supporting residents and partnering with community advocates, leaders, and learners.
We can solve the digital divide. Doing so takes steady effort and a shared commitment from all of us.
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