Implementing digital equity programs across Cape Cod 

The Cape Cod Commission is a pre-qualified planning service provider through the Massachusetts Broadband Institute's (MBI) Municipal Digital Equity Planning Program for the 15 towns of Barnstable County. 

Through this program, the Commission assisted the towns of Bourne, Sandwich, Orleans, Falmouth, and Barnstable in developing municipal digital equity plans, roadmaps for ensuring that all residents have access to the devices, connectivity, and skills needed to participate fully in today's digital society. 

MBI invited towns with completed digital equity plans to apply for one-time grants of up to $100,000 through the Municipal Digital Equity Implementation Program to carry out projects identified during the planning process. All five participating towns received awards and are now moving forward with implementation. 

The Town of Falmouth has contracted with Falmouth Community Television (FCTV) to operate a digital navigation program, funded through a portion of its $85,000 MBI Municipal Digital Equity Implementation Program grant. FCTV's Digital Navigator Program will support residents who need help navigating the digital world, including seniors, veterans, low-income individuals, people with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, and those facing language barriers. 

The Town of Bourne will utilize a $79,685 MBI grant to install and maintain a public Wi-Fi network serving the fields and recreation areas behind the Bourne Community Center at 239 Main Street in Buzzards Bay. These outdoor spaces are important community assets, providing year-round gathering places for residents and visitors of all ages. Expanding free Wi-Fi access will enhance connectivity and improve communication for all who use the facilities. 

The Town of Orleans received a $64,800 MBI grant to expand and map free public Wi-Fi access, purchase laptops and hotspots for lending, and support digital literacy initiatives in partnership with local organizations. 

The Town of Barnstable will use a $100,000 MBI grant to install Wi-Fi at the Hyannis Youth and Community Center (HYCC). The HYCC is a vital community hub and also serves as a shelter and warming center during emergencies. The new installation will significantly improve connectivity within the HYCC, where the building's steel and concrete construction limits existing service.  

The Town of Sandwich will use a grant of just under $65,000 from MBI to offer digital literacy classes at the Center for Active Living and the Sandwich Public Library. As part of the program, the Town will purchase laptops, Chromebooks, and desktop computers to support hands-on learning. 

Commission Deputy Director Steven Tupper and Special Projects Coordinator Helaine Goudreau presented on the region’s digital equity efforts at MA Goes DigitALL, an event hosted by MBI to celebrate the continued expansion of digital access statewide. They joined digital equity leaders from across Massachusetts in sharing progress, insights, and strategies to advance digital inclusion, highlighting how Cape Cod communities are turning planning into meaningful action.