Author/Source: National Digital Inclusion Alliance See the full link here
Takeaway
This article is a call to action for people to support a specific type of funding within a government program called BEAD. It explains that this funding helps people use the internet, not just build the internet lines, which is crucial for making sure everyone can get online.
Technical Subject Understandability
Intermediate
Analogy/Comparison
Building new internet connections is like building new roads in a town, but this article talks about making sure everyone has a car or a bike to actually use those roads once they are built.
Why It Matters
This funding is important because it helps people get the skills and devices they need to use the internet, even if internet lines are available in their area. For example, without it, many people will still struggle to apply for jobs online, access healthcare information, or help their children with schoolwork.
Related Terms
BEAD, Non-Deployment Funding, Digital Equity, NTIA. Jargon Conversion: BEAD is a large government program that gives money to improve internet access across the country. Non-Deployment Funding is money used to help people actually use the internet, like teaching them computer skills or providing affordable devices, rather than just building the physical internet network. Digital Equity means that everyone has fair access to and can use digital tools and the internet. NTIA is the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, a government agency in charge of communication and information policies.
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