June 30, 2025
The Office of Community and Economic Development recently hosted a regional conversation discussing the multidimensional issue of digital access alongside the Technology Learning Collaborative.
Access to digital tools and technologies, and the capacity to leverage them, is increasingly vital in today’s world, as they continue to transform our everyday lives and shape our economies. Among its capacities, broadband connectivity allows individuals to pursue remote work and education opportunities, underscoring broadband’s critical role in workforce and economic development. Although the nine-county Greater Philadelphia region has made significant strides related to digital access in recent years, keeping up with its dynamic challenges and technological advancements requires ongoing commitment.
Addressing the intersecting issues surrounding digital access requires coordination across jurisdictions, between the public and private sectors, and among a variety of stakeholders. To promote cross-sector network building and expand knowledge sharing, DVRPC’s Office of Community and Economic Development recently co-hosted the “Digital Access Forum: A Regional Conversation on Infrastructure, Tools, and Skills” with the Technology Learning Collaborative, a Philadelphia-based digital access organization. The event was part of DVRPC’s ongoing work to convene experts and promote strategies that bring digital tools and technologies to all residents. The Digital Access Forum was a virtual event that welcomed people and organizations already embedded in digital access efforts as well as interested stakeholders who are newer to the field. Attendees represented an array of disciplines, including government, workforce development, education, disability services, communications, technology, and more.
To kick off the event, DVRPC staff presented an overview of digital access issues across Greater Philadelphia, highlighting that the share of households in Greater Philadelphia with a broadband internet subscription grew from 76 to 84 percent from 2017 to 2023. While the most significant growth occurred in the region’s urban centers–Philadelphia, Camden, and Trenton–these areas continue to have the lowest broadband subscription rates. The presentation also outlined three priorities for digital expansion: 1) provide a complete infrastructure network, 2) design tools that work for everyone, and 3) equip the population with the necessary skills to leverage technological advancements.
The overview presentation was followed by a panel conversation among subject matter experts who addressed the intersectionality of challenges related to digital access. The panel was moderated by Kate Rivera, executive director at the Technology Learning Collaborative, and featured:
- Silas Chamberlin, Chief Strategy Officer at the York County Economic Alliance, who discussed how governments can make strategic investments in broadband expansion and digital access initiatives;
- Monique Chabot, Associate Director of Assistive Technology at the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, who highlighted the need for assistive technologies that meet the needs of all users; and
- Josh Keiner, Director of IT and Training at the Chester Education Foundation, who shared lessons learned from launching successful Digital Navigator programs.
Attendees also engaged in open-ended discussions within focused breakout sessions on the topics of digital infrastructure, skills, and assistive technologies. Common themes discussed were:
- The health, education, employment, social, and economic implications of digital access;
- Strategies for engaging decision makers and partners;
- Building off existing community strengths to collaborate across sectors and disciplines; and
- Navigating changes in funding and policy priorities.
A more detailed list of key takeaways from the event, as well as resources to support those working on digital access issues are included in the slide presentation linked below. View the presentation from DVRPC staff, post-event key takeaways, and other resources.