Digital equity refers to the fair and equal access to the opportunities, resources, and benefits of the digital world. It encompasses not only providing devices and connectivity but also ensuring that individuals have the skills, knowledge, and necessary support to use them efficiently and responsibly. The United Nations reports that only two countries, namely the US and China, account for as much as 90% of the market capitalization value of the world’s 70 largest digital platform companies, 75% of all patents related to blockchain, and half of all spending on the Internet of Things.[1] Digital equity is essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship in the digital economy and society.
Access to technology and its related services can be limited by various factors. The availability or quality of infrastructure can be insufficient in certain areas or groups, whether due to a lack of investment or other reasons. In addition, some people may face exclusion or neglect based on their ethnicity or race, while others may face challenges related to their income, education, literacy, special needs, disabilities, or language skills. Moreover, the design and delivery of devices and services can also create unnecessary barriers for certain age groups, such as the elderly or children, if they are not tailored to their specific needs and abilities. It is important to address these issues to ensure that everyone has equal access to the benefits of technology.
Airband has helped more than 51 million people globally gain access to the internet and the economic and educational benefits that come with having affordable access. This includes over 4 million in the United States and 9 million people in Africa to date. Approximately 2.7 billion people—roughly one third of the world’s population—do not have access to the internet. And most of this population lives in just 20 countries across Africa and low or middle-income countries in Asia, Oceania, Latin America, and the Caribbean. We are committed to work with our global ecosystem of partners to bring internet access to 250 million people in unserved and underserved communities around the world, including 100 million Africans, by the end of 2025. Millions of people in both rural and urban communities lack access to affordable internet, affordable devices, or digital skills to participate in school, work, telehealth, and more. What has come to be known as the “digital divide” also disproportionately impacts racial and ethnic minorities. We convene a global network of internet and energy providers, government agencies, nonprofits, and private sector companies focused on closing the global digital divide. Together, we not only build the digital infrastructure required for internet access, but also provide access to digital skills training, devices, and digital solutions that enable people and communities to operate online safely and productively. By working with local and regional partners, we create economic opportunities tailored to the communities they serve. [2]
Digital equity enables people to participate in the creation and dissemination of knowledge, information, and culture. This can stimulate new ideas, perspectives, and solutions to local and global challenges. It can empower people to express their voice, identity, and agency in the digital space. This can enhance their self-confidence, motivation, and engagement in learning and civic activities. It expands people’s access to diverse and inclusive networks, communities, and markets by increasing their social capital, collaboration, and personal and professional growth opportunities. It supports people’s development of digital literacy and citizenship skills. This can improve their ability to navigate, evaluate, and use digital information and tools ethically and effectively. Therefore, digital equity is not only a matter of social justice but also a driver of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship in the digital economy and society. By ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access and benefit from the digital world, we can unleash the potential of human capital and foster a more prosperous, sustainable, and equitable future for all.
Market leaders are investing in innovative solutions, supporting local partners, and engaging with stakeholders, and they are bridging the digital divide and creating opportunities for places that don’t have access for their communities to thrive in the digital economy. They are introducing programs that provide grants and technical assistance to innovative organizations that are developing low-cost, scalable solutions to connect underdeveloped communities to the Internet. They are accelerating digital transformation, innovation, and economic growth by providing access to cloud services, digital skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities. They are using light beams to deliver high-speed internet across long distances. They are embracing design thinking to produce customer-centric solutions, based on understanding the needs, preferences, and behaviors of the users. They collaborate at local and national levels, involving various stakeholders such as government agencies, the private sector, civil society, and international partners, to leverage their expertise, resources, and networks. As digitalization becomes more pervasive and essential for various aspects of life, such as work, education, health, and social interaction, market leaders are making it a priority.
