In a practical move aimed to digitally empower its residents, North Carolina has introduced a new Tech Resource Finder. The website, as detailed in a press release from the N.C. Department of Information Technology's (NCDIT) Division of Broadband and Digital Equity, is designed to connect North Carolinians with over 1,100 resources to increase internet usage and digital literacy.
The tool addresses the essential need for internet access and provides a platform for individuals to pinpoint local digital resources such as public computers, Wi-Fi access points, and technical support. “All North Carolinians need the resources to access high-speed internet and use it safely and effectively,” Governor Roy Cooper expressed, asserting the website's role in bolstering the state's participation in the digital economy. His statements, released just ahead of his departure from office, highlight efforts taken to ensure that residents are better equipped to work, learn, and communicate online, as per NCDIT.
State CIO and NCDIT Secretary Jim Weaver emphasized the internet's critical role in contemporary society, stating that the goal of the Tech Resource Finder is "to ensure that North Carolinians are aware of nearby resources available to help them get to immediately start online and build their digital skillsets.” Weaver’s commitment to digital inclusion reflects an ongoing mission to bridge the digital divide across the state, stated by NCDIT.
Moreover, the interactive platform allows users to effectively search for support by filtering through parameters such as county, zip code, or type of resource. The incorporation of the platform's data into the NC 211 system, through a collaboration with the United Way/NC 211, will enable community resource specialists to connect callers with verified community sources for digital aid. NC 211's service operates in multiple languages, available 24/7, ensuring broad accessibility. This integration intends to simplify the process of finding tech help for many who might struggle to do so on their own.
The initiative, part of Governor Cooper's larger scheme to close the digital divide, aligns with statewide priorities of expanding educational, health, and economic opportunities by increasing digital access. The Tech Resource Finder’s full offerings and additional information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Equity can be found at ncbroadband.gov.
