In partnership with municipalities, housing authorities, nonprofits, and private entities, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) is working to address issues related to the barriers to accessing and using the internet (otherwise known as the Digital Divide) within these communities.

Responses to an “Digital Navigator Program” RFI issued by MAPC will assist the regional planning agency  in building capacity within local communities to support residents in improving their lives through the use of digital technology and the Internet. The Massachusetts Healthy Aging Collaborative encourages communities and stakeholders in the age-and dementia friendly movement to participate so that older adults are represented.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical importance the internet in nearly every facet of daily life, and how those without access to the internet and other digital communication tools are excluded from resources, information, and opportunities.

The primary goal of this RFI is to gather information from qualified parties to support and inform future digital equity initiatives within the region. This RFI does not constitute a solicitation for bids or proposals and will not result in contract award for these services based on information provided in response to this request. Release of this RFI presents an invitation for interested parties to offer MAPC information regarding the services, support, and systems that could be applied to the use cases described in the “Use Cases” section of the RFI.