Thanks to a $1.9 million state grant to bridge the digital divide, Nashville is getting wired. The city's ambitious "TechTies: Connected Services for the Community" initiative plans to dole out tech training, free laptops, and even job opportunities right in the heart of the community.

"Our vision with TechTies Nashville is to create a single point of access to digital opportunity," Mayor Freddie O'Connell told Nashville.gov in a statement that speaks to the heart of the program's goal. Mindful of the hurdles residents face, The Metro government is also stepping in to provide transportation to the Metro Action Commission facility, removing a significant barrier for those keen to connect.

Funded by the Tennessee Emergency Broadband Fund – American Rescue Plan, the grant is a slice of the stimulus pie to advance digital opportunity in the Volunteer State. Dr. Cynthia Croom of Metro Action Commission, a major partner in this initiative, said through Nashville.gov, "This is a way to provide individuals of all ages and backgrounds with the tools and resources needed to break cycles of poverty and thrive in today's connected world."

TechTies is poised to serve the community under one roof and is a team effort involving government departments and local organizations. Mayor O'Connell stressed the importance of partnerships, saying via the press release, "Our partnerships underscore our commitment to supporting and working with trusted local organizations to create opportunities for all members of our community." From public libraries to tech associations, this collab is Nashville's way of saying 'no neighbor left offline.'

At the helm of the city's digital push is Keith Durbin, Metro’s Chief Information Officer, who has spent a decade advocating for digital inclusion. "We have been incredibly fortunate to have the unwavering support of Mayor O’Connell and our partners in Metro Action Commission and Metro General Services Department to help bring this dream to fruition," he expressed through the Nashville.gov news.