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Fast, affordable Internet access for all.
Nominations Open for Digital Inclusion Leadership Awards
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Next Century Cities, a nonprofit advocate of high-speed Internet accessibility for all communities, and Internet Service Provider (ISP) Google Fiber are joining forces to support the second annual Digital Inclusion Leadership awards.
The competition recognizes city governments that are spearheading or investing in community-based organizations that are tackling barriers to high-speed Internet service adoption, or what is commonly known as the “digital divide.” Next Century Cities is comprised of more than 150 mayors and city leaders dedicated to ensuring that all communities get access to fast, affordable, and reliable broadband Internet service.
The 2017 Digital Inclusion Leadership awards will feature two categories: Leader in Digital Inclusion Best Practices and Most Promising New Plan. There will be two winners in each category. All contest submissions are due February 10, 2017 and winners will be announced in spring, 2017.
In a news release, Next Century Cities Executive Director Deb Socia said:
“Approximately 50 million Americans don’t have internet in their homes. Families affected by the digital divide, many of whom are from lower-income neighborhoods, are at a disadvantage when it comes to doing homework, applying for jobs or staying in touch with loved ones. Whether cities are leading or partnering on programs, city governments have a major role to play in getting residents the digital access and resources they need, and we look forward to celebrating their innovations with the 2017 Digital Inclusion Awards.”
Winning projects from the inaugural 2015 Digital Inclusion Awards include:
- Philadelphia, PA: KEYSPOT
- Seattle, WA: Technology Matching Fund Program
- Davidson, NC: Eliminate the Digital Divide
- Austin, TX: Unlocking the Connection
- Chattanooga, TN: Tech Goes Home CHA
- Washington, DC: Mobile Tech Lab
For more on how to nominate, check out the Next Century Cities website.
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