The City of Charlotte is stepping up its efforts to bridge the digital divide with a $1.9 million Learn2Earn grant initiative for local nonprofits, aimed at boosting digital literacy and economic opportunity in underserved communities. The program, managed by the FORWARD agency, is now accepting applications from organizations looking to make a tangible impact in the lives of at least 1,000 residents by increasing their access to technology and the skills necessary to wield it.
Recognizing the pivotal role that technology plays in modern life, whether it be for securing employment, continuing education, or just managing the tasks of daily living — the Learn2Earn program is structured to arm individuals with the essential digital know-how they need. Successful applicants will be granted funds to deliver comprehensive digital literacy training, distribute devices, and create pathways to economic stability, according to the City of Charlotte announcement.
Qualifying for the grant requires organizations to carry a §501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and have at least three years in the trenches of digital inclusion or workforce development. The chosen organizations will be expected to deliver on three service components; which include 14-16 hours of digital literacy training per participant, distribution of digital devices upon successful training completion, and connection of participants to economic opportunities such as career advancement, entrepreneurship, and housing stability.
