Ever since we embarked on this journey to close Hawai‘i's digital divide, we've come across many organizations and individuals that have pioneered digital equity work in their communities. This first Digital Equity Innovation Awards program is designed to recognize those who have contributed to closing the digital divide and helped to build capacity and momentum for the work ahead of us.
Awards will be presented in the following categories in each of State's four counties: Kaua‘i, Honolulu, Maui, and Hawai‘i.
Digital Pioneer Award: Outstanding person or organization in each of Hawai‘i's Counties making strides to close the digital divide.
Demonstrated impact on closing the digital divide within their respective county.
Innovative approaches to providing digital access and skills training, with particular focus on vulnerable or underserved communities.
Collaborative efforts with local stakeholders to address digital inequities.
Future Innovators Award: Student teams in public, private, or charter schools driving digital inclusion and equity.
Implementation of projects or initiatives that promote digital inclusion and access within their school or community.
Demonstrated leadership in advocating for digital equity and awareness among peers.
Creative use of technology to address local digital divide challenges.
Digital Equity Luminary Award: Individual who has championed digital equity with leadership and advocacy.
Sustained commitment and advocacy for digital inclusion and equity.
Leadership in driving policy changes or community initiatives to bridge the digital divide.
Impactful contributions to building capacity and momentum for digital equity efforts
Community Impact Award: Organizations that have made a substantial impact in fostering digital inclusion.
Tangible outcomes and measurable impact in reducing digital disparities within its respective county
Successful implementation of programs or projects that address multiple dimensions of digital equity, such as access, affordability, and digital literacy.
Collaboration with diverse stakeholders to amplify the reach and effectiveness of digital equity initiatives.
Digital Equity Beacon Award: Individual or organization that has utilized data to tell stories and measure progress.
Effective use of data to identify and analyze issues.
Development of innovative metrics or methodologies to assess the impact of data.
Building a data-driven approach to planning and decision-making.
Winners will be announced during Digital Inclusion Week taking place between Ocotber 7-11, 2024. The presentation of awards will take place on Wednesday, October 9, from 9AM - 10:30AM and will be live simulcasted over the community TV network: ‘Ōlelo, Nā Leo, Akakū, and Hoʻike.
Submission deadline is July 12, 2024. There is no fee for nominations.
**Note: As much as we would like to acknowledge all the government support, in the form of State and County workers, this award program is to primarily recognize individuals, nonprofits and student(s) who have been involved with helping move the needle to close the digital divide and achieve digital equity across Hawaii.
