PRESS RELEASE: Statewide initiative and new online tool provide access to the resources individuals need to access the internet

Helping Maine people cross the digital divide

PORTLAND, Maine – There is a new tool for helping people in Maine who struggle to get online to find places near them that offer free wifi, computer classes, low-cost computers, one-on-one tech help, and more. Tech Help for ME compiles a variety of critical resources in one place, making it easier for people in Maine to find what they need at a time when digital access is increasingly important.

The resource hub, developed by the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) and launched today, is designed specifically for people who face added hurdles in getting online. It includes both an interactive map, and list view of resources across the state and down to the community level. The website is designed for people who might not feel tech savvy, might only be able to access it on a phone, or who speak many different languages.

“Our focus is on helping people who face barriers to accessing online medical care, job postings, educational opportunities, and all of the other resources that many of us take for granted,” said Jessica Perez, Digital Equity Manager for MCA. “No one should go without internet access just because they live in a rural area, grew up before the internet, don’t have the money to pay for a device, or face other major challenges in crossing the digital divide,” Perez added.

MCA is Maine’s agency responsible for broadband expansion and digital equity programming. Over the last four years, it has deployed over $250M in public and private investment to expand connectivity statewide, including over $20M in programs and initiatives that help remove barriers.

The culmination of extensive collaboration with partners, techhelpforme.org connects users with nearly 200 public libraries, non-profits, advocacy organizations, adult educators, town offices, and other resources that can help people gain access and use the internet. Collaboration with statewide partners will continue following the tool’s launch, with a resource library including demo videos of how to use Tech Help for ME. The site will also help qualified individuals who don’t own a device access low- or no-cost computers and tablets through Maine Tech Share, in partnership with the Maine-based tech refurbishment nonprofit, give IT. get IT.

"Partnering with MCA to make sure Tech Help for ME is a robust tool for people anywhere in the state makes perfect sense," said Marijke Visser, director of library development at the Maine State Library. "Libraries witness every day how critical it is to have access to the internet, an affordable device, and the skills to put them to work. We're excited to have libraries and other local organizations findable through the app. It's one more tool we can point people to meet their needs."

Earlier this year, MCA announced its Digital Opportunity Fund, a campaign to raise $15 million over three years from private and philanthropic donors to help connect all Maine people to the internet, including through Tech Help for ME. The Digital Opportunity Fund is one of several strategies outlined in Maine’s Digital Equity Plan, the first in the country to be approved by the National

Telecommunications and Information Administration, and comes at a critical time for Maine partners following the termination of $35M in federal Digital Equity Act funds.



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About MCA: Focusing on projects, places and people, the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) advances digital equity and works to improve connectivity for all Maine people. Established in 2021, MCA is Maine’s public agency charged with achieving universal access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet service statewide. MCA has three statutory goals:


Expand effective, accessible connectivity in every part of the state;
Support the creation of secure, affordable, reliable, competitive, sustainable and forward-looking internet infrastructure that can meet future needs; and
Ensure that all residents, businesses and institutions in Maine are able to take full advantage of the economic, health, educational and other opportunities available through connectivity services.