Connecting Hennepin - Eliminating the Digital Divide

On July 20, 2021, the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners allocated up to $10 million in federal funding to continue its support of the Connecting Hennepin initiative and established the Office of Broadband and Digital Inclusion to lead this work. Read the full news release.

Mission

The mission of the Office of Broadband and Digital Inclusion is to build and promote safe access to technology so that all residents of Hennepin County are empowered to thrive in the digital world.

Vision

We envision a county where every resident—regardless of income, background or location—can easily and safely use modern technology to help realize their life goals.

What we do

Lead broadband adoption strategies by supporting available, affordable connectivity choices.
Equip residents with digital tools through computer distribution, hotspot lending, and basic computer support.
Create and promote public-private partnerships to ensure universal access.
Leverage county-owned public infrastructure for community benefit.
Foster digital literacy and safe online habits through digital navigation services and training.
Coordinate with federal, state, and local government partners and community organization.

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Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program is a discount that helps households with lower incomes pay for internet services. Learn more about the program and how to apply.

Community organizations can download Affordable Connectivity Program promotional flyers for handout or display:

Access to technology

If you live in Hennepin County, cannot afford your internet costs or a computer, and your household income is less than $65,000/year, you are likely eligible for our technology support services.

How to request support

If you have a county case worker, talk to them about your technology needs. They can help you request assistance.

You can also visit your local Hennepin County Library and ask a staff member to fill out a Technology Needs Assessment with you.

A digital navigator will follow up with to discuss your needs and what options are available.

Hotspot lending

Through a partnership with Hennepin County Library, hotspots are available to patrons who do not have home internet. The hotspot has unlimited data and can be loaned out for three months.

Visit your local Hennepin County Library and ask the staff to fill out a Technology Needs Assessment with you. If you are eligible, an appointment will be made for you to pick up the hotspot.

Partnerships

Hennepin County partners with cities and internet service providers to meet the needs of our local communities.

Specific broadband projects that have been approved for funding are:

Minneapolis wireless internet service pilot
Minnetrista fiber expansion

Community partnerships

We are currently partnering with the following organizations to provide community-based digital navigation and training services.

Anyone living in Hennepin County can contact them to request assistance using technology.

Digital navigation services

COPAL — call 612-249-8736
Minnesota Care Partner
- Digital Navigation Services Referral or call 612-289-5656
Senior Community Services
- Request a technology support through the Home program by phone at 952-746-4046 or email techsupport@seniorcommunity.org.
Summit Academy Tech Connects program
- Check Northside STEM Events for open labs and tech classes
Urban League
- Tech Lab Office Hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9am - 4pm
- Classes in basic digital literacy skills as well as Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications. To enroll, email lporter@ultcmn.org
Dress for Success Twin Cities
Lyndale Neighborhood Association
Minnesota International Chinese School
- Request computer support at your home
- Open Lab/Drop-in Assistance – Saturdays, 9-2pm at Southview Middle School in Edina throughout the school year
Neighborhood HealthSource
New Vision Foundation - Call 651-340-9742 or email training@nu-vis.org
Technologist Computers
- Submit a Technology Needs Request Form for at-home and virtual technology support and/or requests for adaptive technology
Urban Strategies – Heritage Park
- Drop-in Support: 2nd Tuesday of the month from 5-7pm
- In-person appointments available by request during office hours, Mon-Thurs from 10-6pm. Assistance provided in English, Somali, or Oromo. Call 612-930-3633 or email Maggie.brown@urbanstrategiesinc.org to schedule an appointment

Low-cost computers

We continue to work with PCs for People to provide low-cost devices to residents with lower incomes.

If you have a Hennepin County provided computer and need help with technical issues or troubleshooting, contact PCs for People at 651-354-2552 or email hcsupport@pcsforpeople.org.

About Connecting Hennepin

It is critical for our clients and residents to have access to computers and reliable broadband connectivity. The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified the need for digital access in order to participate in distance learning, engage in county services, and access virtual therapy and telehealth appointments.

Digital equity planning

Learn more about the State of Minnesota’s Digital Equity planning process.

Hennepin County will share updates about how to participate in county-led engagement activities about digital equity. Stay up to date by signing up for the Connecting Hennepin email newsletter in the sign-up box at the bottom of this page.

Results

The latest impact data is available through the pandemic response reporting.

Testimonials

Having personal access to technology provides stability, security and makes it easier to navigate modern life.

"Access to technology is life changing.”
“My three girls don’t share one laptop anymore.”
“In six weeks, we had someone get a job, and a dozen connections to therapists and primary care.”
“This will help my mother with her medical appointments.

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