Digital Equity Initiative Publishes Annual Report on First Year

In its first year, the Initiative established a program foundation, strengthened partnerships and coordination through the Digital Equity Coalition, earned national recognition, promoted activities to integrate broadband into affordable housing, and expanded programming, notably supporting more than 1,600 residents through the inaugural digital equity grants.  

Learn more about these accomplishments in the Initiative's first annual report.

The report also sets priorities for 2026 and summarizes what was heard when the Initiative asked Coalition members for feedback in December. Respondents shared that the Coalition provides value to their work by increasing the visibility of regional resources and facilitating cross-sector relationships and new partnerships. They also noted that the Coalition has spurred the expansion of some programs. Members affirmed the current County-staff-led structure but recommended ways to enhance the Coalition as a knowledge hub and space of relationship building for strategic action.

Digital Equity Coalition Holds Strategic Planning Session 

The Digital Equity Coalition held its first meeting of 2026 on March 10 at George Mason University. Coalition members reflected on 2025 accomplishments and planned for the year ahead. Thirty-nine individuals attended.

Members affirmed the current County-staff-led model and highlighted several opportunities for collective action. Among these was organizing a community showcase of digital inclusion resources to help residents connect with available programs and services. Members also emphasized exploring device distribution alternatives; adopting Artificial Intelligence, online security, and digital citizenship as focus areas; and strengthening coordination and communication among themselves. 

Slides from the meeting can be found on the Coalition webpage. A summary of key priorities and ideas discussed by the group appears on the final slide.

Coalition Member Spotlight 

True Ground Housing Partners Completes Drone Camp

Held in partnership with Escape Velocity Academy, the camp engaged 16 students in grades three through six in an immersive 12-week indoor engineering experience at Columbia Hills Apartments. Through hands-on workshops and team-based design challenges, students explored the engineering principles that enable flight and examined how these principles influence drone operation and performance. True Ground Housing Partners is one of the inaugural Arlington digital equity grantees and is planning more digital skill-building programs for spring and summer, including coding camps and more.

Spread the Word & Stay Informed

Know any neighbors, friends, or colleagues who might be interested in Arlington County’s Digital Equity Initiative? Forward this newsletter and invite them to subscribe using this link.

Find news and info about the Initiative and its milestones, plus continuously updated lists of resources, on the Digital Equity Initiative Homepage.

For more updates about Community Planning, Housing and Development in Arlington County, including announcements from the Digital Equity Initiative, follow Plan Arlington VA on X (Twitter).

Questions or ideas? Contact us at DigitalEquity@arlingtonva.us.