In today’s technology-driven world, computer and internet skills are vital for access to information and education, workplace competitiveness, and social connectivity. Personal ownership of large-
screen computers such as desktops or laptops—and the ability to productively use them—are crucial components of this journey to individual empowerment. To quote the most recent comprehensive study on this topic, “…for closing the digital divide, …reliable computer access is critical. In short: computers matter.” Computer ownership and use are particularly challenging in rural locations, with fewer businesses able to donate computers, limited refurbishing services, and lower numbers of nonprofits that can support computer deployment and digital skills programs. This report highlights the lessons learned from a 15-month effort to increase computer supply, computer deployment, and digital skill building in three rural communities, and provides guidance for future work in developing sustainable computer ownership ecosystems in rural America. It emphasizes key learnings, takeaway messages, and best practices from the activities underlying each of the five broad outcomes that can be applied in other rural locations.

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