Finger Lakes Digital Inclusion Coalition Strategic Plan 2021-2023

GOAL

STRATEGIC ACTIONS

GOAL 1: Policy and Framework

Build a policy framework against which stated digital inclusion goals and actions can be assessed.

1.1 Through interviews, surveys and the review of policy documents, identify core themes, directions and gaps in current and planned approaches to digital inclusion.

1.2 Share findings with a representative sample of government, business, community leaders and underserved community members. Using their feedback and insight, build a shared vision for digital inclusion in the Finger Lakes.

1.3 Leverage the FLDIC website to disseminate information about the Region's digital inclusion policies, action plans, and how people can participate.

1.4 Document a deeper understanding of the challenges to digital equity, an increased awareness of digital inclusion work occurring in the region, a greater sense of urgency to address the issue, and an awareness of possible solutions.

GOAL 2: Access
Raise awareness and advocate for increased access to affordable high-speed internet and devices for those who are currently underserved, unserved, and in need.

2.1 Map the current availability of paid internet services based on speed, cost and household income. Working with business, government and private donors, identify options for expanding affordable services.

2.2 Map the public availability of WiFi throughout the Region to identify gaps that need to be filled. Define and promote strategies to fill these gaps.

2.3 Working with business, government and private donors, assist with the repurposing and distribution of devices.

GOAL 3: Training and Support

Provide digital technology training and support to underserved individuals and communities.

3.1 Identify the types of training and support that have been most effective pre-pandemic and during the pandemic. Identify current trends and post-pandemic predictions.

3.2 Where possible, replicate innovative strategies in other communities.

3.3 Survey Coalition Members about their unmet digital training and support needs.

3.4 Identify training grants and other funding opportunities for Coalition Members to pursue.

3.5 On the FLDIC website, maintain a culturally-specific list of digital inclusion training and support programs, tools, and community contact information.

GOAL 4: Partnerships

Facilitate the development of community partnerships to leverage funding opportunities and the consolidation of resources that enhance digital education, income generation, telehealth, community engagement, and personal well-being.

4.1 Expand the Coalition to include a broad range of potential partners, including underserved community members.

4.2 For each Coalition member, document current and desired partnerships and collaborations based on results of member survey.

4.3 Facilitate the sharing of "lessons learned" and contact information by convening regular meetings and an annual summit.

4.4 Support the efforts of Coalition members to replicate successful partnership programs.

GOAL 5: Organizational Structure

Develop and implement a financially sustainable future for the Finger Lakes Digital Inclusion Coalition.

5.1 Develop a three-year budget to identify funding requirements.

5.2 Assess the duties and responsibilities of the current FLDIC Coordinator and develop a plan to ensure that essential tasks are able to continue into the future.

5.3 Draft a Coalition membership fee structure and share it with current members for their feedback and ideas.

5.4 Identify other sources of funding to pursue, including grants, private sector donations and fund-raising events.

5.5 Form a Finance Committee to assist with fund-raising efforts and to monitor progress.

Approved December 2020