Minnesota Seeks Input for Digital Opportunity Program Plan

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is calling for public input on the state’s draft plan for the digital opportunity program. This program aims to address gaps in broadband access, digital technology ownership, and digital skills within the state.

The plan outlines how Minnesota will utilize a forthcoming federal grant to promote digital equity. The DEED wants to gather feedback and suggestions from the public to ensure that the program effectively serves the needs of the community.

To facilitate this, several meetings have been scheduled across the state. These meetings will provide an opportunity for individuals to express their thoughts and contribute to the shaping of the program’s final plan. While registration is encouraged, it is not required to attend these meetings.

The scheduled meetings include:

– September 6, 12-2 p.m.: Winona, Witoka Tavern 27983 County Road 9
– September 6, 3:30-5:30 p.m.: Rochester, Family Service Rochester, 4600 18th Ave. NW
– September 7, 9:30-11:30 a.m.: Faribault, Rice County Administrative Building, 320 3rd St. NW
– September 7, 1:30-3:30 p.m.: Mankato, Bridge Plaza, 201 N Riverfront Dr. (Second Floor Training Room)
– September 12, 2-4 p.m.: Crookston UMN-Crookston, Bede Ballroom, 2900 University Ave.
– September 13, 2-4 p.m.: Fergus Falls, Fergus Falls Public Library, 205 E Hampden Ave.
– September 14, 12-1:30 p.m.: Online Meeting (registration required)
– September 18, 2:30-4:30 p.m.: Hinckley, Hinckley Community Room, 198 Dunn Ave. N
– September 19, 2-4 p.m.: Two Harbors, Two Harbors Public Library, 320 Waterfront Dr.
– September 20, 6-8 p.m.: Deer Driver, Community Tech Hub, 1049 Comstock Dr.
– September 21, 1-3 p.m.: Minneapolis, North Regional Library, 1315 Lowry Ave. N
– September 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.: International Falls, Minnesota North College – Rainy River, 1501 Hwy. 71
– September 27, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Bemidji, Northwest Minnesota Foundation, 201 3rd St. NW
– September 27, 2-3:30 p.m.: Online Meeting (registration required)

The DEED emphasizes the importance of digital equity and aims to bridge the digital divide ensuring that all individuals have access to broadband internet, digital devices, and the necessary skills to fully participate in the digital era.

The public’s input plays a crucial role in shaping the final plan, and everyone is encouraged to attend these meetings and share their thoughts on how the digital opportunity program can best address the needs of Minnesota communities.

Sources:

– Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)
– KTTC News

Note: The original article did not include URLs for the sources provided.