Resources for Digital Navigators & Planning

Digital Navigators: Connecting People Across the Capital Region

  • Trusted Guides for the Digital World: Digital Navigators are community-based guides who help residents across the Capital Region get connected to the internet, access devices, and build digital confidence. They work one-on-one with individuals and families to make sure everyone can fully participate in today’s online world.
  • Expanding Access and Affordability: Many households in our region still face barriers to reliable internet and devices. Digital Navigators help people find affordable internet service options, assist with applications for low-cost connectivity programs, and connect them with computers through local refurbishing and donation programs like Computers4Kids.
  • Building Digital Skills for Everyday Life: Digital Navigators provide personalized support for basic technology skills—such as setting up email, navigating websites, applying for jobs, using telehealth services, or accessing online learning. They also teach online privacy and safety, ensuring residents feel confident and secure as they explore the digital world.

Why It Matters

Digital access is now essential for education, employment, healthcare, and civic participation. Yet many people in the Capital Region remain offline due to cost, lack of devices, or uncertainty about how to use technology. Digital Navigators bridge this divide, ensuring that everyone—regardless of age, income, or background—can connect to opportunity.

Strengthening Communities

When residents are connected, communities thrive. Digital Navigators strengthen the Capital Region by expanding opportunity, supporting local economies, and promoting social inclusion. Every person who gains access to technology and digital skills helps build a stronger, more resilient, and equitable region.

Becoming a Digital Navigator: Digital Literacy Resources and Trainings

Organizations offering  training to become a Digital Navigator include:  
  • CETF – Digital Navigator Toolkit & Training Framework: The California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF) offers training in a variety of modalities. The training is designed for Community Based Organizations and participation in the Get Connected California initiative. The training results in a certification as a digital Navigator.
  • Goodwill & World Education Coursera Digital Navigator Course: Goodwill and World Education developed a Coursera course which offers a self-paced 15 hours online Digital Navigator training. Those who complete the training can receive a certificate for an additional fee. The course can be taken on a cell phone, tablet, or iPad using the Coursera app, or through the Coursera.org web site using a laptop, PC, or Mac desktop computer.
  • National Digital Inclusion Alliance – Digital Navigator Training (Live, Online): 8-hour online training over 2 days (covers DN model, broadband basics, devices, skills coaching, boundaries, etc.)
    • New dates are posted on their registration page and events calendar as each cohort opens.

Digital Navigator Training Curriculum: Topics Recommendations

  • Understanding the Digital Navigator Role
  • Core Skills for Digital Navigators
    • Communication
    • Digital Basics
    • Privacy and Safety
    • Resource Navigation
  • Key Topics for Digital Navigators
    • Affordable Connectivity Programs in California
    • Device Access and Digital Literacy
    • Navigator Workflow
    • Data Privacy and Ethics
    • Connecting with Regional Partners
    • Certification and Continued Learning
    • Key Resources

Affordable Internet and Low Cost Computers for Digital Navigators

Finding Affordable Internet Plans 

This guide supports Digital Navigators, librarians, and community partners who help California residents find reliable, low-cost home internet service. Use these steps and links to locate available plans by neighborhood or ZIP code, determine eligibility, and assist residents in enrolling.
Step 1: Start with the Address or ZIP Code:
  • Ask the client for their street address (preferred) or ZIP code. Many low-cost offers are location-based and may only appear when you search with precise information.
  • Navigator Tip: Use this information in the tools below to see which plans are available in their neighborhood. Do not save or share personal details outside your organization’s privacy guidelines.
Step 2: Check Low-Cost Options
Step 3: Check Eligibility for Discounts & Support
After identifying available plans, help the client see if they qualify for additional discounts or support programs that can reduce costs further.
  • California LifeLine (Phone & Some Broadband): Offers discounted phone and bundled options through approved providers.
    • Check income-based or program-based eligibility and enrollment requirements and current limits
  • Local & Regional Programs
    • Many California cities, tribes, and community groups provide local connectivity support, such as: free or low-cost Wi-Fi zones or Device loan programs
    • Encourage clients to check: local library or city digital inclusion pages; school district or community programs

Finding Low Cost Computers

Computers 4 Kids 
In the Capital Region Computers4Kids is a nonprofit in West Sacramento that offers free and low-cost refurbished computers for qualifying students and individuals. They can be contacted at (916) 572-1152.  Students who attend school in the Washington Unified School District can speak with their schools Computers4Kids representative about getting a referral form for a free computer and setting up an appointment with Computers4Kids. Students who are enrolled in classes in the Los Rios Community College District receive a 30% discount on computers from Computers4Kids to help them with their education. 
California Department of Technology (CDT): (EveryoneOn) Device Offers
CDT in partnership with EveryoneOn, helps residents find affordable devices. 
  • Search by ZIP code
  • Review qualification details
A list of organizations offering low-cost computers is presented. Select the computer that best suits the individuals needs.