The Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), a division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech), announced the distribution of 5,063 internet-enabled devices to 45 organizations through the Connected and Online program, a statewide effort focused on expanding economic opportunity through increased digital access. 

The Connected and Online program is a $31.6-million initiative, funded through the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund, providing Massachusetts-based organizations with laptops, tablets and desktop computers to help residents access the internet. The program also provides support equipment such as braille keyboards to assist vulnerable populations.

The Connected and Online program will aid Gateway Cities and rural communities alike by providing residents direct access to devices through lending programs or resources at publicly accessible locations. To date, the program has provided nearly 32,000 devices and more than 13,000 pieces of supportive equipment to hospitals, municipalities, nonprofits, public libraries, elder and youth aid groups, and workforce training organizations across the Commonwealth.

More information, including the list of awardees, is available here.