WIA specializes in working with government, education, and industry stakeholders to develop workforce solutions for the broadband industry. We are a hub for broadband workforce training and apprenticeship resources.
The Arizona Memory Project (AMP) helps researchers discover information related to the history and government of Arizona by providing access to primary sources in Arizona archives, museums, libraries, and other cultural institutions
Lending Library: including audio books and magazines; movies with audio descriptions; and Braille books and magazines by postage free mail (KLAS); loan of special equipment to play audio books; audio and Braille book downloads (BARD); and access to NFB-NEWSLINE® and over 300 newspapers and magazines by phone and online
June 18, 2024
Phoenix’s plan, if approved, would add a new section to the city code to provide the rules for licensing and transactions between the city and companies who build and operate fiber-optic networks.
Jun 14, 2023
The Biden administration on June 12 announced it will send $714 million to help rural areas in 19 states connect to the internet, including $25 million for the Colorado River Indian Tribes.
June 6, 2024
The world has increasingly become more digital. From remote work to online education programs and even telehealth services, our interactions are highly enabled by technology. However, this isn’t a reality for all…yet. Take, for example, a retiree who needs to schedule a doctor's appointment but does not know how to access their provider’s website portal. Or a family whose device isn’t working properly and restricting access to internet services that many of us use to work, learn and live online.
The Arizona Telecommunications and Information Council (ATIC) is a non-profit organization of business, government, academic, and other relevant participants that provides expertise to effectively guide telecommunications and digital technology policy development and deployment in the state of Arizona and serves as a leading source of expertise on broadband technology matters.
This Application was created to help with permitting planning and environmental review preparation efforts by providing access to multiple maps from publicly available sources, including federal review, permitting, and resource agencies, as well as information about infrastructure and right of way.
The Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) has created a suite of BEAD application resources and an interactive mapping tool to help smaller ISPs be more competitive when applying for this historic funding.
This map from The Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) allows potential BEAD applicants to explore eligible project areas, view project areas funded by previous federal grants, and easily see existing ISP footprints in potential deployment areas. The tool is designed to support efficient initial assessments of eligibility by census block, and the creation of a high-level grant strategy based on that eligibility.
The Community Broadband Networks (CBN) initiative is a program of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, a national research and advocacy nonprofit focused on fighting corporate control and building an American economy driven by local priorities. CBN works with a diverse group of allies, partners, and local communities on policies to improve local Internet access. We also research and document what communities around the country are doing to improve access to high-quality broadband networks.
The Arizona Community Foundation supports various community initiatives, including funding programs related to digital inclusion, workforce development, and telehealth. They provide resources and grants to organizations working towards community development and empowerment.
A collective public/private campaign aimed at eliminating the gap between Tucsonans who have access to telecommunications – and the educational, economic, and social advantages connectivity brings – and those who do not. A project fund of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, the coalition for Tucson Connected works together to deliver strategies that reduce and eliminate historical barriers to technology access and use.
T-Mobile has taken steps to address digital equity through its "Project 10 Million," which offers free internet access and mobile devices to eligible students and their families. The program aims to bridge the homework gap and provide equitable access to educational resources.
Televerde Foundation’s mission is to provide currently and formerly incarcerated women with the personal and professional development programs necessary to successfully join and advance in the global workforce. Their approach inspires creativity, imagination, self-confidence, and social skills while addressing issues that cause recidivism. They enable women to break the generational cycle of poverty and incarceration by becoming positive role models to change the lives of future generations and build stronger communities.
Sahuarita Food Bank is a community staple in southern Arizona. The Food Bank and family resource center provide local families with food services, financial and digital literacy training, coding and robotics classes, online safety training, digital navigator support, job search support and more. With a volunteer corps of more than 250 people, the Food Bank is one of the most trusted community anchors in the region. The organization recently launched project AZUL, a mobile digital literacy and skills training unit that brings service and support directly to rural communities.
The Rural Arizona Development Council supports rural development initiatives and addresses the unique challenges faced by rural communities in Arizona. They promote economic growth, community development, and the well-being of rural residents.
RefurbIT is an initiative of the ACHIEVE Enterprise Services, a full-service electronic recycling center that is an industry leader in converting obsolete computer electronics into reusable and refurbished products and provides refurbished IT equipment at discounted prices. RefurbIT serves Yuma, San Luis, Somerton, Wellton, Gadsden, Parker, Quartzsite, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Casa Grande, and Maricopa.
PCC offers a wide range of academic programs, from certificate courses to associate degrees. With a commitment to educational excellence and community engagement, Pima Community College provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education opportunities. The institution plays a pivotal role in workforce development, lifelong learning, and in helping students achieve their academic and career aspirations.
Maricopa Community Colleges provide digital literacy training and workforce development programs, including certifications and vocational training. They offer educational opportunities to enhance career prospects and meet the evolving needs of the job market.
Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona is a statewide organization that offers workforce development programs, job training, and employment placement services. Their focus is on assisting individuals with barriers to employment, providing them with the necessary skills and resources to secure meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities.
Cox is committed to promoting digital equity through various programs and initiatives. One of their notable programs is Connect2Compete, which aims to bridge the digital divide by offering affordable internet access and devices to low-income families with school-aged children. Connect2Compete provides discounted internet service plans, digital literacy training, and access to affordable devices, ensuring that students have the tools and connectivity they need to succeed academically. Cox is a provider of the Affordable Connectivity Program and also works in collaboration with community organizations on STEM programs and engages in robust community outreach.
Chicanos Por la Causa is a statewide organization that provides digital literacy, workforce development, and community empowerment programs. CPLC provides digital and financial literacy training and access to technology resources. Through their workforce programs, CPLC provides job training, career counseling, and employment placement services to empower individuals and promote community development.
The Boys and Girls Club has a strong presence in communities across Arizona. They provide comprehensive support to young people, including digital literacy training and workforce development programs. Through their clubs and after-school programs, the Boys and Girls Club offers access to technology resources, mentors, and educational opportunities that equip youth with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the digital age.
AT&T has been involved in numerous initiatives related to digital equity. Through its "AT&T Connect All" program, the company aims to bridge the digital divide by providing affordable internet access and devices to underserved communities. AT&T also offers workforce training programs and supports STEM education initiatives.