AT&T Foundation

Statewide

Capacity Building

The AT&T Foundation has provided funding to Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG) to provide technology to students participating in JMG programming.

Age Friendly Sullivan

Hancock

Affordable Broadband, Broadband Access, Digital Literacy

The steering committee for the community has adapted its work to allow for participation by Zoom, as well as ensuring a Bone Builders exercise class for older adults is offered using a hybrid in-person/electronic model for broader participation. A committee member has also been involved in Sullivan’s efforts to expand broadband access to all members of the community, including negotiating with Starlink to erect a satellite internet station which is usable by remote residences that purchase a home unit. Age-Friendly Sullivan also encourages participation in RSU24 Community Education’s NDEC classes and provides information to community members about Lifeline services.

Age-Friendly Georgetown

Sagadahoc

Digital Literacy

Helps residents take part in National Digital Equity Center trainings and was formerly a host-site for NDEC in-person classes prior to the pandemic. Age-Friendly Georgetown also currently provides training for computer/smartphone use.

Age-Friendly Saco

Cumberland

Affordable Broadband, Device Access

Developed a “handy helper” program which utilizes volunteers to support older adults by providing a tablet computer and connecting them with their municipalities’ low-cost internet program. They also provide older residents with Echo Dots (smart devices) that can be used as personal assistants.

Aroostook Area Agency on Aging

Aroostook

Device Access, Tech Support, Digital Literacy

Utilizes volunteer “Friendly Techies” to help with electronic device set-up, sending emails, and using services through Zoom. The program has iPads that are available to loan to consumers to access AAA services remotely. Friendly Techies provide support to the iPad users.

Aroostook County Action Program

Aroostook

Affordable Broadband

Educates its consumers about the availability of the Affordable Connectivity Program and assists with applications.

Associates for Training and Development

Statewide

Digital Literacy

Associates for Training and Development offers Maine’s Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), a job training program for older adults authorized through the Older Americans Act. The organization offers The Learn IT 2 Work program, which provides computer skills training topics ranging from understanding computer hardware, to web browsing, and email. Learn IT 2 Work is delivered over the course of 20 hours in four to five days. The service is not free and has a $750 tuition requirement.

Augusta Housing Authority

Kennebec

Affordable Broadband, Device Access

Refers individuals to the FCC Affordable Connectivity Program and helps them apply. Laptop computers are provided in common areas.

Bangor Public Library

Penobscot

Broadband Access, Device Access, Digital Literacy

Bangor Public Library provides broadband access and public computing resources in the form of 24 Windows computers that can be booked in 90-minute intervals per day. Specialized research computers are also available to patrons. Weekly trainings are offered to individuals on digital literacy topics.

Bangor Savings Bank Foundation

Statewide

Capacity Building

The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation has provided funding for digital equity projects, including devices, hotspots, and connectivity for students to learn remotely during the pandemic.

Bath Housing Authority

Sagadahoc

Broadband AccessTech Support

Bath Housing Authority offers internet through all community rooms in housing it maintains and works to share low cost or free options for internet. Bath has also partnered with a local library to address residents' technology needs. The resident coordinators were able to bring a librarian on-site to assist with technology issues. The librarian could also assist with applying for low-cost internet services or free cell phones, help people set up tablets, and similar activities. Although no longer operating due to a staff departure at the library, this was an innovative partnership to facilitate digital equity and inclusion for residents.

Betterment Fund

Statewide

Capacity Building

The Betterment Fund has supported broadband assessment, planning, and implementation efforts in rural Maine.

Biddeford Housing

York

Broadband Access, Device Access, Tech Support, Digital Literacy

Free Wi-Fi internet access and desktop computers are provided in common areas. Residents are referred to community resources for technical support and digital skills.

Boothbay Region Adult & Community Education

Lincoln

Digital Literacy

Provides device access (desktops, laptops, peripherals, and other office devices). Digital skills training offered includes computer and hardware basics, video calls, internet browsing, operating system basics, social media, and technical certifications. Curricula includes Northstar and BoomerTech Adventures.

Brewer Housing Authority

Penobscot

Affordable Broadband, Broadband Access, Device Access, Tech Support

Refers individuals to the FCC Affordable Connectivity Program and assists with completing the application. Free internet access is provided to residents in their apartments/homes and desktops and Wi-Fi are available in common areas. Staff members are available to help residents with technical issues and learning how to use devices.