Brown County United Way and community partners are helping close the digital divide across Brown County through Techquity Wisconsin, a statewide initiative that connects eligible residents with technology, digital navigation support, and technical resources.
Since launching local Techquity efforts in March 2026, Brown County United Way has hosted eight events and distributed 301 laptops to eligible participants.
“Ensuring residents have access to affordable internet, devices, and digital skills enables more people to connect with essential services, pursue education and employment opportunities, and manage their health,” said Jill Sobieck, Impact Initiatives/Outreach Strategist at Brown County United Way. “By closing the digital divide, we reduce barriers for ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households and other low-income individuals, ultimately building a more equitable, connected, and resilient county where everyone can thrive.”
Brown County United Way released the 2026 State of ALICE report, revealing that 35% of Brown County households, or more than 38,000 households, lived below a basic cost of living in 2024. The ALICE Report establishes a Household Survival Budget reflecting realistic expenses for the lowest-cost options for housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, technology, taxes, and other basic expenses specific to each county.
Brown County United Way uses ALICE data to guide investments, partnerships, and advocacy efforts such as the Techquity program.
Techquity Wisconsin is a statewide initiative led by the Wisconsin network of United Ways and community partners. In addition to receiving a laptop through the program, participants are connected with trained Digital Navigators.
“Access to a device is the first step. Digital Navigators can provide personalized support that helps people build confidence with technology and make the most of the opportunities it creates,” said Nina Rubin, Outreach & Digital Navigation Specialist at United Way Fox Cities.
Brown County United Way partners with United Way Fox Cities to provide Digital Navigator services and one-on-one assistance.
The initiative also benefits from a partnership with Capital Credit Union, which provides financial education resources and community education opportunities during Techquity events.
