Google Fiber fellowship in Charlotte will focus on digital literacy

The Nonprofit Technology Network is partnering with Google Fiber, which plans to bring its high-speed wireless network to Charlotte, to host a fellowship aimed at improving digital literacy. Applications will be accepted starting Wednesday.

The Digital Inclusion Fellowship, now in its second year, accepts 22 people total across Google Fiber’s 11 metro areas to work with local community organizations on building digital literacy programs, the Internet giant said in a statement this week.

In Charlotte, fellows will work with Charlotte Mecklenburg Housing Partnership, Inc. and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library.

Some of the projects include showing adults how to get their GEDs online, helping job-seekers learn digital workplace skills, and teaching parents how to access their children’s grades online.

The nine-month fellowship includes a week-long orientation program in which fellows will be trained on digital literacy best practices and work to develop leadership skills.

Google Fiber will contribute about $1 million over the course of the fellowship to cover fellows’ salaries and benefits, as well as stipends to fund new digital inclusion programs.

Applications are open through May 13 at nten.org/community/dif.

Google Fiber announced plans last year to bring its high-speed service to Charlotte and is in the process of building out its network. Earlier this year, the company said it will bring the high-speed service to residents of all public housing properties it connects to, at no cost to the housing authority or to residents.

This story was originally published April 20, 2016 at 8:00 AM with the headline "Google Fiber fellowship in Charlotte will focus on digital literacy."