Another way to address digital inclusion is ensuring a community has one or more organizations that provides user support available remotely or in-person at a local facility. This support can be modeled after Michigan’s Inclusive Training, Technology and Equity Network (MITTEN) program. The program establishes a statewide Digital Navigator Resource Network of resource hubs and host sites for regional digital coordinators.

A trained regional digital coordinator can be placed in local communities to provide personalized support with obtaining and using internet plans, devices and software. Digital coordinators can help identify a community member’s needs and provide resources suitable for their skill level and lifestyle. A digital coordinator can reliably point a community member to online resources, low-cost devices, digital literacy training and other digital inclusion-related needs, online classes or self-guided tutorials.

The DigitalUS Digital Navigator Playbook is another resource to help organizations set up a digital navigator program.