A $17.6 million investment will see 23 organizations teaching digital literacy skills to ensure no Canadian gets left behind in this digital era
OTTAWA (ON) March 13, 2023.- Digital literacy skills are essential in today’s world. Whether booking a medical appointment, doing online transactions, studying, working or looking for a job, Canadians need to be able to use the Internet safely, securely and effectively. Innovation and technological progress are creating tremendous change, so learning these skills and understanding digital technology will not only reduce barriers to accessing valuable information and resources but also open up opportunities for all Canadians to succeed in everyday life.
Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced that 23 not-for-profit organizations in communities across the country will receive funding as part of a $17.6 million investment in the second phase of the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP). This significant investment will support the organizations in teaching digital literacy skills to those who need it most.
The DLEP aligns with the Universal Access principle of the government’s Digital Charter, as it is part of a bundle of digital skills programs offered by the Government of Canada that seek to bridge the digital divide and help all Canadians access digital technology and develop the skills they need to use it.
Quotes
«Our government knows that Canada thrives when no one gets left behind. In today’s reality, understanding digital technology and being able to use the Internet are vital, which is why we are committed to ensuring that all Canadians have the skills to access information and opportunities online. Through initiatives supported by the Digital Literacy Exchange Program, thousands more Canadians will be equipped with the necessary skills to use computers, mobile devices and the Internet safely and securely.»
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
Quick facts
- Launched in 2018, the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP) aims to equip Canadians with the necessary skills to engage with computers, mobile devices and the Internet safely, securely and effectively, and it is designed to be inclusive by reaching out to those who are not online or are still learning how to use digital technologies.
- The Government of Canada is investing $17.6 million over three years, starting in 2022–23, to help 100,000 Canadians gain the skills they need to participate in the digital economy.
- In its first phase, the DLEP supported training of more than 400,000 participants from under-represented groups.
Organizations receiving funding
- ABC Life Literacy Canada
- Altered Minds Inc.
- Brain Injury Association of Waterloo-Wellington
- Burnaby Neighbourhood House
- CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind)
- Community Sector Council Newfoundland and Labrador
- East Hants Community Learning Association
- Fabrique Mobile
- Gaspésie Literacy Council
- Gluu Society
- Job Skills
- Labour Education Centre
- The Learning Enrichment Foundation
- Literacy Link South Central
- Multicultural Association of Fredericton Inc.
- Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries
- Parkland County Library Board
- Pinnguaq Association
- Project Adult Literacy Society
- S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
- SADC Shawinigan
- Saskatoon Industry Education Council
- Tech Manitoba
Source: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada