Policy implications from a pandemic broadband adoption program for low-income job seekers

Abstract

In 2020, many organizations worked to increase broadband adoption in low-income households. Our study examines one Seattle effort that distributed 197 refurbished computers and 174 internet hotspots to low-income job seekers. Using mixed methods including audio diaries, we found that programs need to distribute technology based on individual needs, recipients want assistance from people that they trust, and programs need funding to support organization system and personnel capacity and development. Digital equity policy and funding interventions should go beyond funding physical infrastructure (connectivity and devices) to better support the social and organizational systems that enable meaningful broadband adoption.