Mayor Ras J. Baraka proudly announced yesterday that Newark has been named a 2024 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). This prestigious recognition highlights the City’s ongoing commitment to bridging the digital divide and advancing digital equity for all residents. The award recognizes Newark’s collaborative efforts with local organizations to create a digital inclusion ecosystem that empowers communities.
This milestone was achieved through a partnership with the Newark Housing Authority (NHA), Newark Fiber, internet service provider Andrena, and local telecom companies like Teknogrid, a Black-owned Newark-based company. This collaboration has provided affordable, high-speed internet to more than 1,600 units across 14 Newark Housing Authority buildings. Andrena’s service, which starts at just $15 a month, offers significant savings compared to the average rate of $75, making internet access more affordable for low-income households. Furthermore, local residents were trained and hired to install the service, addressing both the digital divide and the wealth gap by creating job opportunities in the growing tech sector.
“This year, one major advance in our commitment to bringing internet to every Newark resident was the result of a public/private/workforce development collaboration,” said Mayor Baraka. “This initiative not only helped us bridge the digital divide, but it also provided career opportunities for Newark residents, allowing them to enter the internet installation industry.”
Aaron Meyerson, Chief Innovation Economy Officer and Director of Broadband at Invest Newark, emphasized that Newark is working tirelessly to provide comprehensive digital solutions. “From affordable internet at Newark Housing Authority to device refurbishment training courses, Newark is ensuring that residents have the connectivity, devices, and knowledge they need to thrive,” said Meyerson.
Angela Siefer, NDIA’s Executive Director, highlighted Newark’s role in leading digital inclusion efforts, stating, “Local governments like Newark are stepping into the important role of building digital inclusion ecosystems, ensuring all residents have access to digital opportunities.”
Since the launch of the program in 2023, over 1,600 units across Newark’s five wards have gained access to Andrena’s affordable internet service, with Wi-Fi available in public spaces as well. These initiatives are part of the City’s broader strategy to close the digital divide, especially as 2022 U.S. Census data shows nearly one in five Newark households still lacks internet access, and 9% of families do not have a computer.
Newark continues to expand its digital services through initiatives such as Newark Fiber, while also bringing new internet providers to the city, refurbishing city equipment, training technicians, and providing digital literacy courses to ensure every Newark resident can succeed in the digital age.
