The Center has secured funding from the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) to work with Community Concepts Finance Corporation (Community Concepts) on a year-long digital equity and inclusion program in Maine’s Oxford County. The project builds on the long-standing partnership between the Center and Community Concepts to support communities across the County as they work to expand access to broadband internet services as a means of creating jobs and supporting public safety, education, healthcare, tourism, and overall quality of life. 

 The new effort is part of MCA’s Regional & Tribal Broadband Partners Program which is designed to help deploy, sustain, and maximize the benefits of broadband infrastructure investment across the state of Maine.  

 Funding from MCA is enabling the Center to expand its partnership with Community Concepts to achieve three goals. Together, we will: 

• Provide digital navigator services to improve coordination, promotion, and delivery of digital equity and inclusion services to Oxford County residents and organizations;  
• Increase access to affordable internet service for Oxford County residents, especially people with low incomes; and  
• Increase access to affordable computers and equipment for Oxford County residents, especially people with low incomes.  

 “While we continue working to expand broadband infrastructure in rural communities, it’s equally important to make sure all local residents have the tools and skills to take advantage of improved service,” said Mike Wilson, the Center’s senior program director. “The Center is committed to making sure everyone is able to benefit from improved high-speed internet service.”