Learn about Digital Access Month

September is Digital Access Month

Digital Access Month, a regional effort to raise awareness about the digital divide and inspire action toward a more connected North Central Washington.

Today, digital skills, devices, and reliable internet access are essential for everyday life. People use technology to apply for jobs, access healthcare, complete schoolwork, manage finances, connect with services, stay informed, and participate in their communities. Yet many individuals and families still face barriers to getting online or using digital tools with confidence.

Digital Access Month brings partners together to highlight those challenges and create practical pathways to digital inclusion. Throughout September, organizations across the region are encouraged to share resources, host events, offer training, build partnerships, and make commitments that help more people access and use technology in meaningful ways.

This work continues to grow. In 2024, more than 40 organizations across the region made commitments to support digital access. Last year, that number grew to 55 organizations, showing the power of regional collaboration and a shared commitment to closing the digital divide.

From libraries, schools, healthcare providers, and nonprofits to businesses, economic development partners, and community-based organizations, Digital Access Month is about working together so everyone has the opportunity to use technology to support their work, learning, health, and daily life.

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“Before this class, I felt stuck, like I was walking everywhere while the world zoomed past me. But now, learning how to navigate online, I feel like I’ve been handed the keys to a brand-new vehicle.”
— Gary Wulff, Inchelium Tribal Member

Make a 2026 Commitment

2024 Digital Equity Plan Summary

NCW Tech Alliance, in collaboration with the NCW Digital Access and Equity Coalition, is proud to announce the release of the 2024 Digital Equity Plan Summary, aimed at bridging the digital divide in Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan Counties. This initiative highlights the ongoing efforts and strategic actions being taken to enhance digital inclusion across North Central Washington.

Funded by the Washington State Broadband Office, the county-level digital equity plans were developed through the collective efforts of the NCW Digital Access and Equity Coalition. These plans provide a roadmap to address digital disparities, focusing on expanding broadband infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring access to affordable devices. The goal is to empower all individuals in the community to fully participate in the digital world, irrespective of their background, income, language, education, or geographic location.

Special thanks to Digital Equity Plan Work Group members: Steve Maher, Our Valley, Our Future; Roni Holder-Diefenbach, Economic Alliance; Alma Chacon, CAFE; Jerry Perez, Community Health Network of Washington; Rubén Betancourt, Hispanic Business Council; Oscar Licon-Eusebio, NCW Equity Alliance; Barbara Walters, NCW Libraries; Jenny Rojanasthien, NCW Tech Alliance, Aaron Parrott, Skillsource; Wendy Brzenzy, Thriving Together NCW; Riva Morgan, Wenatchee Valley College; Summer Hess, Sage Step Consulting.