Learn2Earn Pilot Program
The City of Charlotte is committed to digital inclusion as part of its work on upward mobility. During the February 2023 presentation to City Council, staff outlined a multi-phased approach to reducing the digital inclusion gap in Charlotte. In partnership with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and the Center for Digital Equity, the free Learn2Earn program pilot was developed to offer residents an opportunity to earn a new device while developing job-related skills.
Individuals who demonstrated completion of eight free courses offered at the library given a new, 3-year factory-warranted, full-functioning, high-quality computer, sufficient to meet a wide array of goals. These trainings are selected to build confidence, improve self-sufficiency, and connect efforts around digital literacy to resources and skills that could result in better paying jobs.
Will this program be offered again?
This is a pilot effort through the City of Charlotte, funded with a grant and done in partnership with multiple organizations. While the hope is to offer this program in other parts of Charlotte in the future, due to funding, that is not guaranteed at this time.
The City of Charlotte is open and actively looking for organizations that would like to partner with city leadership to provide additional technological resources and education to residents.
To help us improve this program and find more community partners please provide feedback by taking the survey.
Learn2Earn Pilot Funding
On June 20, 2023, over 5,000 households were given access to free gigabit-speed internet in their homes through ARPA funding approved by the City Council. The Council also approved ARPA and CARES funding for Digital Navigation services which provide needed internet adoption support through marketing, engagement, basic tech support, enrollment support, and referral to other digital and tech services.
The Learn2Earn program pilot is supported by these funds to help residents build foundational skills around digital capacity through coupling computer devices and digital literacy.
What if I did not participate or finish the courses in the pilot program but still need a device?
Due to funding the pilot program service area is limited at this time. However, Digital Navigators with the Center for Digital Equity (CDE) may be able to help connect you with services and device distributions in other areas of the city. To connect with the CDE, dial 311 and ask to speak with a Digital Navigator.