Techquity Partnership Expands Digital Access and Opportunity Across Brown County

More than 300 laptops distributed through a collaborative effort supporting education, employment, financial stability, and digital literacy

 

GREEN BAY, Wis. — 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 resources to help them succeed in today’s increasingly digital world.

Since launching local Techquity efforts in March 2026, Brown County United Way has hosted eight events across the county and distributed 301 laptops to eligible participants. Early participant surveys indicate recipients plan to use their laptops for online classes, banking and budgeting, improving computer literacy skills, searching for employment, pursuing higher education, staying connected with family members, and managing everyday household tasks.

“Digital inclusion is critical to advancing our mission of improving lives and strengthening the community. 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.”

Techquity Wisconsin is a statewide initiative led by the Wisconsin network of United Ways and community partners to advance digital equity and ensure more residents have access to the tools and support needed to participate fully in education, healthcare, employment, and daily life. In addition to receiving a laptop through the program, participants are connected with trained Digital Navigators who provide personalized support and guidance to help individuals build confidence and skills using technology.

“Access to technology changes everything. So many parts of daily life now depend on being connected, whether that’s applying for jobs, helping kids with homework, continuing education, or managing finances,” said Nina Rubin, Outreach & Digital Navigation Specialist at United Way Fox Cities. “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.”

Brown County United Way partners with United Way Fox Cities to provide Digital Navigator services for local participants. Through one-on-one assistance, Digital Navigators help individuals troubleshoot technology challenges, access online resources, build digital skills, and achieve personal goals related to education, employment, healthcare, and financial well-being.

The initiative also benefits from a partnership with Capital Credit Union, which provides financial education resources and community education opportunities during Techquity events.

“At Capital Credit Union, we believe financial well-being begins with access—and grows through care and collaboration. Our partnership with United Way allows us to meet individuals and families at a meaningful moment, as they receive a new laptop, and immediately connect them to trusted, free financial education they can use right away,” said Erin Wojkiewicz, AVP-Talent Development & Financial Education at Capital Credit Union. “Access to technology opens the door to knowledge, confidence, and opportunity. Together, we’re creating pathways for people to take positive steps toward financial stability and a brighter future. This work reflects our commitment to inspiring financial well-being for all.”

As demand for digital access continues throughout the community, Brown County United Way is expanding partnerships with local higher education institutions, school districts, and communities across Brown County. The organization is also developing new digital literacy learning opportunities, including upcoming sessions at City East Center in collaboration with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.

Techquity WI is a federally funded initiative supported by the U.S. Department of the Treasury through the American Rescue Plan Act and the State of Wisconsin, administered by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. The program aims to serve 30,000 individuals across Wisconsin by November 2026 and scale successful local digital equity efforts statewide.

Brown County United Way is seeking volunteers to support future Techquity events and digital inclusion initiatives. Community members interested in being trained to support enrollment in the Techquity program and assist at Techquity events are encouraged to contact Jill Sobieck at jill@browncountyunitedway.org.

 

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About Brown County United Way
Brown County United Way leverages data to mobilize the Brown County region in three ways: helping individuals, improving community systems and advancing policy change, while keeping ALICE® at the center. Further, its mission is to unite people, resources and ideas to co-create community solutions that strengthen every person and every community in Brown County.

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