ABOUT idia

WE ENVISION A FUTURE WHERE EVERYONE can

ACCESS AND INFLUENCE tHE DIGTAL LANDSCAPE

The Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) disrupts systemic digital inequity by equipping marginalized and underserved communities with the skills, tools, and resources needed to build digital agency and thrive in a connected world.

Through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives in education, workforce development, and healthcare, we foster economic resilience today and create sustainable opportunities for growth in the digital landscape of tomorrow.

What is
digital inclusion?

Digital inclusion means ensuring that ALL individuals have equitable access to and can effectively use technologies – including the internet – to participate fully in society democracy, and the economy.

THe challenge

92% of today’s jobs require digital skills – yet 1/3 of workers have low or no digital skills. (National Skills Coalition)

The challenge is exacerbated by economic disparities in low-income and underserved communities where people, from children to older adults, are often the least likely to have access to essential skills.

The Great Divide: At a Glance

Access to Affordable Broadband

Despite advances in technology, many regions, particularly rural and impoverished urban areas, still lack affordable, reliable broadband. This fundamental barrier prevents individuals from engaging in many basic activities such as online learning, telemedicine, remote work, and accessing government services.

Socio-economic Disparities

People in lower socio-economic groups may have more limited access to technology and the internet, compounding existing inequalities and limiting opportunities for economic advancement.

Availability of Devices

Access goes beyond just having an internet connection; it also means having the right devices. For many low-income families, even the cost of a basic computer or smartphone can be prohibitive, and such devices are essential for accessing digital resources.

Digital Literacy and Skills

Possessing digital literacy skills is crucial in leveraging technology for improving one's quality of life. Many individuals lack these skills, which include not only the ability to use digital devices but also to evaluate and communicate information safely and effectively online.

Privacy and Security

Marginalized communities often have heightened vulnerabilities online, including a lack of privacy and exposure to cyber threats. There's a need for better education on digital rights and more robust protections against data breaches and other forms of cyber harm.

Cultural and Language Barriers

Digital content and tools are not always available in multiple languages or designed with cultural sensitivities in mind. This exclusion can deter engagement and utilization of digital technologies by non-native speakers and various cultural groups.

Accessibility

Technology often is not designed with accessibility in mind, which excludes people with various types of disabilities from using digital tools to their full extent. This includes software that is not compatible with assistive technologies and websites that do not meet accessibility standards.

Policy and Regulatory Issues

There is a need for more coherent policies that address the complexity of digital inclusion. This includes regulation that encourages investment in infrastructure, ensures fair access to services, and promotes the creation of diverse, culturally relevant content.

the future

Imagine a world where a zip code doesn't determine access to technology and information, where your ideas can flourish without the barriers of digital exclusion, and where each person’s talents are nurtured to their fullest potential.

That's the world we're co-creating, and we want you to be a part of it.

MEET THE TEAM

We are passionate and dedicated team working together, and alongside our partners to close the digital divide.

Erin Carr-Jordan, Ph.D.
President & CEO

Annissa Furr, Ph.D.
Head of Learning and Research

Dominic Papa
Chief Government Relations Officer

Stephanie Pierotti
Head of Community Activation

Tori Blusiewicz
Administrative Coordinator

Luis Morfin
Digital Navigator Manager

Josh Thompson, Ph.D.
Program Manager

+ a team of incredible Digital Navigators

experts and advisors

A team of dedicated humans lending us their expertise:

Derek Masseth
Di Bowman
Amy Sheon, Ph.D.
Sharon Robinson-Kurpius, Ph.D.
Heather Ross, Ph.D.
Tim Lant, Ph.D.
Michael Simeone, Ph.D.

our Partners

Partnership is at the core of everything we do. Together, we are leveraging our collective superpowers to increase impact and the sustainability of programs.