The North Carolina Department of Information Technology (NCDIT) has launched the State’s second Digital Opportunity Survey as officials seek updated insight into residents’ access to affordable broadband, computers and digital skills across the state.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to reduce the digital divide and improve access to online services for households, businesses and communities increasingly reliant on digital connectivity. State officials said survey responses will help shape future policies and partnerships designed to support residents in areas including employment, education, healthcare and government services.
The survey is being coordinated by NCDIT’s Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity in partnership with the Friday Institute at NC State University. Authorities are encouraging widespread participation to better understand how residents’ digital needs have evolved since the initial survey was conducted.
“Every community deserves to have access to affordable and reliable high-speed internet, computers and digital skills,” said NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Nate Denny. “By surveying our residents over time, we will update our understanding of individuals’ needs and their confidence in digital skills, which is crucial for reevaluating our strategies to building a stronger state and advancing our workforce.”
Officials said the updated data will assist the State in refining long-term digital inclusion strategies and identifying communities still facing barriers to internet access and digital literacy.
Statewide Effort Targets Connectivity and Digital Inclusion
The Digital Opportunity Survey has been designed to gather information from residents regarding internet affordability, device access and confidence using online tools safely and effectively. The findings are expected to guide future investments and support programmes aimed at expanding digital participation throughout North Carolina.
According to NCDIT, the survey can be completed online or through printed copies for residents without internet access. State agencies, local governments, nonprofit organisations, grantees and community groups are also being encouraged to support outreach efforts through a coordinated promotional campaign.
The department said promotional materials, graphics and survey resources are being distributed to improve participation rates and ensure representation from communities across the state.
The survey initiative complements a wider series of programmes already introduced by the Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity to improve digital access and support services.
One of those initiatives includes a partnership with NC United Way to provide statewide digital assistance through NC 211. The service offers residents free and confidential guidance on accessing the internet, locating public computers and Wi-Fi services, and finding digital skills classes.
Officials said the support line was created to help residents navigate essential online services safely and effectively, particularly as access to healthcare, employment and public services continues shifting towards digital platforms.
In December 2024, NCDIT also launched the Tech Resource Finder platform, aimed at helping residents identify nearby digital support services. The platform allows users to search for assistance by county, zip code or resource category, improving access to local programmes focused on digital opportunity and connectivity.
Infrastructure Investment Continues Across North Carolina
Alongside digital literacy and support efforts, North Carolina continues to invest heavily in broadband infrastructure projects intended to expand high-speed internet coverage statewide.
NCDIT said nearly $700 million in infrastructure projects funded through the American Rescue Plan Act have already been launched. The projects are expected to extend broadband access to approximately 258,000 homes, businesses and community anchor institutions across North Carolina.
The investment represents one of the State’s largest broadband expansion efforts and reflects increasing government focus on closing connectivity gaps in underserved and rural communities.
Officials believe stronger internet infrastructure combined with improved digital skills training will help create broader economic opportunities and strengthen workforce participation in an increasingly digital economy.
The survey results are expected to play a central role in determining future priorities for North Carolina’s broadband and digital opportunity programmes as state leaders continue efforts to ensure residents have equal access to digital tools and online services.
NCDIT said the initiative supports Governor Josh Stein’s broader strategy to close the digital divide and improve long-term digital inclusion across the state.
