Digital Inclusion

Digital engagement and inclusion are key strategic priorities for the City of Madison Information Technology (IT) department. The City strives to improve internet connectivity, digital engagement tools and practices, user experience, accessibility, and language access for Madison residents. It’s also our goal to connect our residents, policy makers and staff with internal and external resources that support their digital needs and transform their lives. 

The Digital Divide

Are any of the following situations familiar?

• A loved one mentions not being able to replace their broken smartphone.
• A work colleague doesn’t understand how to use new software your organization adopted.
• An older adult neighbor struggles to make doctor follow-up appointments because they can't navigate the online systems.
• A student tells you their home/farm doesn’t have broadband internet and cell service isn’t great.
• A young adult struggles during a remote job interview because they have no experience videoconferencing in the professional world.

These are all digital divides, and digital inclusion efforts are what helps to bridge these gaps.

As technology evolves, resulting digital divides can prevent access to and adoption of tools for using it safely and effectively. The National League of Cities (NLC) defines the digital divide as the gap between individuals who have access to computers, high-speed (broadband) internet, and the skills to use them comfortably, and individuals who do not. This gap shows up in various ways in our community, including healthcare, civic participation, employment, learning, public transportation, and access to other essential services and resources. 

The Road to Digital Access: Digital Inclusion

Our Madison's Digital Inclusion Ecosystem

To connect City residents, policymakers and staff with resources, we annually map the City of Madison's Digital Inclusion Ecosystem. The National Digital Inclusion Alliance defines a digital inclusion ecosystem as, "a combination of programs and policies that meet a geographic community’s unique and dynamic needs." This includes programs and policies that address all aspects of the digital divide and collaboration on digital access/adoption solutions among government, community partners and community members. If you are a local community or business partner offering low-cost or free broadband, digital literacy training, or device access/support, please reach out to digitalinclusion@cityofmadison.com and we will add your services to our list of local resources.

Programs & Initiatives  

Through the years, our City launched several inquiries, programs, and initiatives to enhance digital equity. While this list is not exhaustive, it represents our roadmap for digital inclusion.     

• The City of Madison online resource hub dedicated to connecting residents and City staff with things like workforce skills training, digital devices, Wi-Fi, digital literacy training and more
• Digital Inclusion in the IT 2024-2027 Strategic Plan
• City of Madison digital inclusion ecosystem mapping project
• City of Madison/Dane County Digital Inclusion Stakeholders Group
• City of Madison Information Technology Digital Inclusion Efforts Report
• Lifeline Program community engagement
• Madison Public Library digital literacy and computer skills training
• Benefits of Broadband Competition Report released
• DANEnet / Information Technology / Madison Public Library Computer Fix-It Clinics
• Fiber-to-the-Premises (FttP) feasibility study and resulting implementation plan
• Madison United Fiber Network (MUFN) collaboration

Low-Cost Home Internet Access

The Lifeline program provides low-income Wisconsin residents affordable access to essential telecommunications services by discounting the cost of phone, cell, and internet services. For more information, please consult the Lifeline brochure.