The Problems
The Problems
People in rural areas significantly lag behind cities in their use of computers, and tech experience gaps in the workforce could leave businesses struggling to find the skilled talent they need to remain competitive.
Source: Harvard Business School
20% of Veterans in rural areas do not access the internet at home.
Source: VA Office of Connected Care Communications
22% of people with disabilities live in a household without internet access.
22 million Americans ages 65+ do not have broadband connections at home.
This is the digital divide. A gap that is keeping the very technology that could be a great equalizer out of reach for millions of Americans.
By failing to bridge the digital divide, underserved areas face:
Inhibited economic growth, innovation, and job creation
Lack of digital skills that are necessary for a 21st Century workforce
Limited educational opportunities for children, who fall behind their peers without access to the internet for homework and distance learning
Decreased agricultural productivity – hurting American farmers who can’t access the high-tech tools needed to compete in the global economy
Fewer affordable options and worse health outcomes for rural patients, who may have to travel hours to consult their physician without access to telemedicine
NEXT: The Barriers
