The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) will distribute more than 9,100 laptops to community institutions across the commonwealth to support residents who do not have access to digital technology.
PBDA said it approved 117 applications from the Digital Connectivity Technology Program, which provides laptops to libraries, non-profits, and community institutions. The community institutions approved to receive laptops include the Literacy Council of Reading-Berks, Inc. in Berks County, the J. Herman Bosler Memorial Library in Cumberland County, and the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh in Allegheny County.
“The community organizations receiving these devices will help ensure that individuals needing to use a laptop to access high-speed, reliable internet will have that important access.” said Executive Director Brandon Carson. “Each organization has outlined a clear and effective plan to make these laptops available to individuals in their communities so they have better health, education, and economic outcomes.”
Through the Digital Connectivity Technology Program, laptops are distributed to public-facing institutions such as libraries, municipalities, workforce training organizations, not-for-profit organizations, and other community anchor institutions in areas where affordability is a barrier.
PBDA confirmed that a second round of laptop applications through the Digital Connectivity Technology Program will open in 2025.
PBDA will also partner with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry and PA CareerLink to introduce program participants to SkillUp PA, which offers no-cost online job skills training to the public. The online training platform offers a variety of courses, including Computer, Digital Skills, Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, IT, and other business courses. Participants can also pursue industry-recognized credentials in areas such as CompTIA, Cybersecurity, Project Management, Human Resources, and Microsoft Office Specialist.
“All Pennsylvanians deserve access to reliable, high-speed internet and a chance to compete for a good-paying job,” said Department of Labor and Industry Secretary Nancy Walker. “By providing Pennsylvania workers with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in today’s workforce, we not only strengthen our communities, but are one step closer to closing the digital divide in Pennsylvania.”
