Event Background

The California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF) has been engaged by the California Department of Technology (CDT) to plan and organize 20 Regional In-Person Engagement Events across the state to gather strategic input to the State’s Digital Equity and Broadband Equity Access Development (BEAD) Plans pursuant to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and consistent with AB2750 (Bonta – Digital Equity Plan).

Who is the Digital Equity Regional Workshop Event for?

All residents of Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties who are interested in Digital Equity and broadband issues in their communities. All residents are encouraged to attend this significant event for the purpose of allowing the state of CA to hear the regional story of Digital Equity that is unique to the tri-county region.

When is the Digital Equity Regional Workshop Event?

June 2nd, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Check in and refreshments at 8:30 a.m.
Lunch at 12:00 p.m.

Where will the Digital Equity Regional Workshop Event be held?

California State University, Monterey Bay
Conference room address and parking instructions will be announced soon

What is the Digital Equity Regional Workshop Event?

Share information about the State’s existing Broadband for All programs and initiatives, how local entities can leverage those, and to engage in processes for the Digital Equity and BEAD Plans and related future funding opportunities.
Gather local input to inform the Digital Equity and BEAD Plans regarding the Digital Equity Barriers for 10 Covered Populations and 6 outcome areas.
Provide Strategies and Solutions to address challenges and explore opportunities for collaboration to achieve Digital Equity.

What are the 10 Covered Populations that the state of California would like to hear from?

Those living in covered households (income at or below $150K)
Aging individuals 60+
Those with disabilities
Incarcerated individuals
Veterans
Those with language barriers (includes ELL)
Members of a racial or ethnic minority group
Those residing in rural areas
Those identifying as LGBTQ
Women