New fund aims to tackle digital exclusion

A regional digital skills initiative is expanding support for community groups as it awards new funding to help tackle digital exclusion across the North East.

The Dynamo Digital Inclusion Fund, created by tech sector organisation Dynamo North East C.I.C. and managed by the Community Foundation North East, has allocated almost £36,000 in its first round of grants. 

The fund was established to improve digital access, boost skills development and widen employment opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Nine community organisations will benefit, including Your Voice Counts, Age UK Teesside, The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company, Digital Voice for Communities CIC, Skills 4 Work, Age Concern South Tyneside, the Afghanistan & Central Asian Association, Mulgrave Mixed Media and Vision Northumberland. 

Each group supports people with varying needs, from older residents to neurodiverse individuals and those facing social or economic barriers.

Kevin Maloney, philanthropy advisor at Community Foundation North East, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with Dynamo North East on establishing the fund and making the first round of grants. 

“The digital divide remains a significant barrier for many individuals and communities in our region, and the crucial work that all nine organisations do will directly support those affected by this barrier.”

The fund forms part of Dynamo’s wider mission to drive long-term digital inclusion and support communities most at risk of being left behind. 

It aims to create practical pathways into the digital economy and ensure residents have the confidence and capability to engage with essential online services.

Dr David Dunn, chief executive of Dynamo North East C.I.C., added: “If we can help as many people as possible become digitally active and, more importantly, digitally confident, regardless of their backgrounds, age or circumstance, we can deliver positive, life-changing opportunities and reduce social isolation here on our doorstep across the whole of the North East.

“People face greater inequality and economic disadvantage when they have no access to the internet, so by working with and supporting charitable and grassroots organisations through the Dynamo Digital Inclusion Fund, we can make positive strides forward and start seeing a real difference. 

“We’re therefore delighted to have awarded the first of these funds.”

Dynamo North East has also confirmed that its next annual tech networking dinner, supporting future fundraising for the Digital Inclusion Fund, will take place at The Fire Station in Sunderland on Thursday, March 19.

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