City Of Sioux Falls To Launch Digital Equity Task Force With Midco Gift

From City of Sioux Falls:

September 1, 2020

The City of Sioux Falls is using a $50,000 gift from Midco© to launch a task force focused on addressing digital equity in Sioux Falls. The Inclusive Digital Equity Alliance, or IDEA, task force will develop a comprehensive digital equity plan for Sioux Falls and the region.

Digital equity refers to access to Internet connectivity, devices, and digital literacy. According to 2017 American Community Survey data, 13 percent of households in Sioux Falls had no Internet access, or 9,399 households. Digital equity is essential for individuals to fully participate in our society, democracy, and economy. This focus area will support our One Sioux Falls framework through foundational growth.

“Far too many individuals in Sioux Falls—especially youth—lack the technology and digital access necessary to succeed in our increasingly connected world,” said Mayor Paul TenHaken. “To achieve digital equity in Sioux Falls and help our next generation succeed, we must be intentional about looking at technology gaps and strategies to address them. The Inclusive Digital Equity Alliance will help us kick-start this important work.”

“The intent of this financial investment is to look into digital equity more broadly and find solutions to address community needs at a deeper level,” said Midco© President & CEO Pat McAdaragh. “We’re looking forward to partnering with the City and the Inclusive Digital Equity Alliance to really dig in and do the work to solve digital equity challenges.”

The City will launch the task force later this year. The task force will include 12 to 20 appointed members, including government agencies, school districts, community organizations, employers, and residents. The gift will support a consultant with digital equity expertise and implementation of initiatives produced by the task force.

This press release was produced by City of Sioux Falls. The views expressed here are the author’s own.