From North Dakota Digital Equity Plan
Empower every North Dakotan, from our urban centers to the most remote regions of our state, with equitable digital access to be engaged with the opportunities of tomorrow.
North Dakota is a state with vibrant, diverse communities spread out across wide open spaces that span from the Red River Valley in the east to the Badlands in the west. While individuals may be spread out across the state’s vast prairies, the funding made available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) for digital equity has provided the transformational opportunity for more North Dakotans to be connected. The State’s priorities detailed within this Plan will build upon previous efforts to connect all North Dakotans to broadband by seeking to ensure that all individuals, regardless of location, income, or background, have the access and skillset required to use the internet effectively.
Digital equity in the context of North Dakota is defined as every individual having broadband access, devices to use the internet, and the skills necessary to stay connected. In order to achieve success with respect to digital inclusion, North Dakota will deploy broadband throughout the state and address the many challenges that North Dakotans face with respect to accessing and using the internet. These hurdles include a lack of affordable options, digital skills, or user-friendly interfaces, among others.
North Dakota’s vision for digital equity is supported and enhanced by the vision and goals of the BEAD Program. Through the BEAD Program, the State will create a strong backbone for digital equity by building a network that enables all North Dakotans with affordable, reliable, high-speed internet to connect with the opportunities of tomorrow. The DE Program will advance the BEAD vision by enabling all North Dakotans with access to devices and digital skills necessary to take advantage of the digital world.