North Carolina Launches Tech Resource Finder for Internet Access and Digital Skills
North Carolina Launches Online Hub to Bridge Digital Divide
Raleigh, NC – Governor Roy Cooper announced the launch of the state’s new Tech Resource Finder, a thorough online platform designed to connect North Carolinians with vital digital resources. The website, accessible at https://www.ncbroadband.gov/resource-finder, offers a directory of over 1,100 organizations across the state providing internet access, public computers, Wi-Fi hotspots, technical support, and digital skills training.
“All North Carolinians need the resources to access high-speed internet and use it safely and effectively,” said Governor Cooper. “This website will help ensure that more people can be part of the growing digital economy to work, learn, access telehealth, and connect with others online.”
The tech Resource Finder, developed by the N.C. Department of Data Technology’s Division of Broadband and Digital Equity, aims to bridge the digital divide by identifying and showcasing the wide range of services available to residents. Users can easily search for local offerings by county, ZIP code, or type of resource, with options to view results on a map or in a table format. Each listing provides detailed information, including a description, address, website, contact information, and directions.
“The internet is essential in almost every aspect of today’s world,” said State CIO and NCDIT Secretary Jim Weaver. “Our goal is to ensure that North Carolinians are aware of nearby resources available to help them get online and build their digital skillsets.”
To ensure the platform remains up-to-date and relevant, the Division of broadband and Digital Equity is partnering with N.C. State University’s William & Ida friday Institute for Educational Innovation.Additionally, the Tech Resource Finder offerings will be integrated into the NC 211 system, allowing trained community resource specialists to connect callers with verified community sources. NC 211 is available 24/7 in multiple languages, providing accessible support to all North Carolinians.
For more information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Equity, visit https://www.ncbroadband.gov/home.
Bridging teh Digital Divide: An Interview with N.C. CIO Jim Weaver
NewsDirect3.com: North Carolina recently launched a new online platform, the Tech resource Finder, aimed at addressing the state’s digital divide. Can you elaborate on the purpose of this initiative?
Jim Weaver: The internet is an essential tool in today’s world, impacting everything from education and employment to healthcare and civic engagement. Unfortunately,not everyone in North Carolina has equal access to the resources needed to navigate the digital landscape. The Tech Resource Finder is designed to bridge that gap by connecting residents with vital digital resources available in their communities.
NewsDirect3.com: The platform boasts a directory of over 1,100 organizations offering services like internet access, technical support, and digital skills training. How was this extensive network compiled, and how will it be maintained?
Jim Weaver: We collaborated with partners across the state, including community organizations, libraries, schools, and businesses, to identify and verify the organizations included in the directory. To ensure the platform remains updated and relevant, we’re partnering with NC State University’s Friday Institute for Educational Innovation. They will continuously update the information and conduct outreach to ensure we capture all available resources.
NewsDirect3.com: The Tech Resource Finder integrates with the NC 211 system, a popular community resource hotline. What’s the significance of this integration?
Jim Weaver: This integration is crucial for accessibility. NC 211 operates 24/7 and offers multilingual support, making it easier for all North carolinians to connect with thepirazione resources they need. Trained specialists at NC 211 can now directly connect callers with verified organizations listed on the Tech Resource Finder, providing personalized assistance.
NewsDirect3.com: What impact do you anticipate the Tech Resource Finder will have on North Carolina communities?
Jim Weaver: We believe this platform will empower North Carolinians by providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to fully participate in the digital economy. It will help bridge the digital divide, promote digital literacy, and ultimately create a more equitable and connected society.
NewsDirect3.com: Thank you for providing insights into this vital initiative.