How Community Technology Helps People

In 2008, Governor Gregoire signed the bill creating a state definition of community technology and CTOP, the Community Technology Opportunity Program for grants.

CCN supports the prominent role of community technology programs in achieving the vision of a digitally inclusive society for Washington State. In 2008, the Communities Connect Network, with the participation of many computer learning center staff and users, were instrumental in working for passage of the statewide high-speed internet deployment and adoption initiative legislation. This bill recognized the role of community technology programs in fostering broadband adoption and technology skill building for Washingtonians. Community technology programs provide access and training to under-served, under-represented and digitally-excluded populations. The CTOP grant program was funded in 2008, but not refunded in 2009. However the program and definition are still "on the books" ready for state support.

Around Washington State, there are hundreds of community technology programs that provide access, training and essential online content. However these programs often lack the funding and sufficient technical assistance to sustain operations, let alone improve and expand services.