Welcome to the Smart City Initiative Newsletter, the central hub for news and updates on pilot programs, partnership opportunities, events, and upcoming challenges! 

Welcome to this year's Digital Inclusion Week (DIW)! We're sharing our Smart Cities Newsletter space with our colleagues at the Office of Digital Equity and Inclusion to share resources, information, and knowledge regarding digital inclusion. Join their work by following their social media campaign via Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and Facebook @LongBeachCity!

Why is digital inclusion important in smart cities? A smart city strives for equity in internet access and affordability where every resident can connect and enjoy the opportunities a smart city offers. The digital divide emerges when technology and lack of access to key infrastructure in our digital world further perpetuates existing inequities in the City.

At the end of DIW, we'll share a summary of resources. Enjoy and we hope you learn a bunch!

In solidarity,

Long Beach Smart Cities Team 🌐💙

The City of Long Beach proudly joins the eighth annual Digital Inclusion Week (DIW), from October 7-11, 2024, a national week of action to raise awareness and amplify the importance of digital equity.

Celebrated by communities across the nation, DIW highlights the importance of digital equity, inclusion and accessibility, especially for underserved communities. This year’s theme, “Stronger Together: Mobilizing Towards Sustainability,” highlights the power of collaboration in ensuring the longevity of the digital equity movement. By fostering a robust digital inclusion ecosystem, we can sustain our movement towards long-term digital inclusion solutions.

Throughout DIW, we will be sharing valuable resources and programs via our social media platforms to highlight the City’s efforts in advancing digital equity. Follow along via Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and Facebook @LongBeachCity to learn about low-cost internet services, free City public Wi-Fi, digital skills workshops, and affordable computing device programs in Long Beach.

Long Beach is proud to have an Office of Digital Equity and Inclusion, dedicated to enhancing digital access and opportunities for all residents. This dynamic team is at the forefront of promoting digital equity by providing valuable resources and support to ensure that everyone can benefit from the digital age.

Are you finding it challenging to access reliable internet, obtain the right devices, or improve your digital skills?

The City’s Digital Inclusion Resource Hotline is here to provide comprehensive support tailored to meet your needs. Whether you're a resident looking to connect with online resources or a resident seeking to enhance your digital skills, our team is ready to assist you.

We utilize a callback model to ensure that each inquiry is addressed with the personalized attention it deserves. Simply reach out to the Digital Inclusion Resource Hotline by calling (562) 570-7000 or emailing digitalinclusion@longbeach.gov. Our team will work with you to resolve issues and guide you towards the resources that will help you thrive in today's digital landscape.

Let us help you make the most of the digital inclusion resources and opportunities available to you!

Long Beach offers a one-stop shop for resources through our comprehensive Digital Inclusion Resource Guides. These guides are designed to help residents access digital inclusion resources such as free City Wi-Fi locations, technology library services, low-cost internet services and computing devices. The guides are available in English, Spanish, Tagalog, and Khmer. To obtain a copy of the Digital Inclusion Resource Guides, please visit our website.

We are committed to bridging the digital divide and providing all community members with the tools and information needed to succeed in a digital world. Our aim is to support residents in fully utilizing the digital resources available and to foster a more connected and informed community.