The Washington State Broadband Office at the Department of Commerce will receive a $15.98 million from National Telecommunications and Information Administration to continue efforts to improve digital equity throughout Washington.
The funding will support Washington’s efforts to enhance digital equity by creating a Broadband Cybersecurity Literacy Program. According to a news release from he state department of Commerce, with cybersecurity threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s vital that people not only have the tools to connect but also the skills to engage with technology safely and responsibly.
The state program will develop advanced cybersecurity curricula that can be incorporated into existing digital literacy training, ensuring that Washington communities are equipped to face the challenges of today’s online world. The information will empower people to navigate the internet safely and confidently—an essential skill for participating in the digital economy. The work aligns with Washington’s Digital Equity Plan, which promotes practices and tools that ensure online privacy and security.
