The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, last week launched the second phase of the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP), announcing additional federal funding. This investment of $17.6 million over three years will be used to support initiatives focusing on teaching digital skills to underrepresented groups
More specifically, it will be used to support not-for-profit organizations whose mission is to teach digital skills to Canadians who struggle to participate fully in the digital world. This includes seniors, people who have not completed high school, Aboriginal people, people who do not speak English or French at home, people with disabilities, new Canadians, people with low income and residents of northern, rural and remote communities.
Launched in 2018, the DLEP aims to bridge the digital divide and help Canadians acquire the skills needed to use digital technologies. In its first phase, it trained over 400,000 people from underrepresented groups.
Digital literacy is essential in today’s increasingly digital world, the ministry said in a statement. Digital skills also enable Canadians to use the Internet safely and efficiently, whether to book medical appointments, bank, study, work, or look for a job.
Minister Champagne took the opportunity to announce the launch of a call for proposals from non-profit organizations interested in obtaining funding under the program. To be eligible, they must be incorporated in Canada, have at least three years of experience delivering digital literacy training, and submit their proposals by September 7, 2022 through the program website.
“Digital skills are crucial in today’s world. Our government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians have the skills to access information and opportunities online. Through initiatives supported by the Digital Literacy Exchange Program, Canadians are receiving training to improve their skills and confidence so that they can fully participate in today’s digital economy”, said Minister Champagne.
