The MassHire Metro North Workforce Board – a workforce development network in Massachusetts – received a grant through the COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Act to support immigrant entrepreneurs in the community. MassHire used the grant for two programs: (1) a business mentoring program and (2) a English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program.
Digital access was a concern for the program population. MassHire wanted to remove any barriers to entry and designed a digital equity initiative as part of its efforts.
Their goal for this initiative was to:
- Provide participants with reliable internet access, removing stress related to lack of connectivity and bridging the digital divide in the community
- Provide digital access to participants for the full program year
Implementation
This is where Mobile Beacon came in. MassHire ultimately chose Mobile Beacon as their internet access provider because we offered the best price, flexibility, and reach.
Each participant received a Mobile Beacon hotspot and a laptop. This allowed them to work independently and access the internet from any location, addressing a critical need for flexibility and preventing bandwidth competition. The hotspots we provided enhanced productivity for the participants and supported innovative projects, including developing a translation company by one participant!
Results
From the start of the grant to the end of 2024:
- 30 entrepreneurship program participants received hotspots and laptops in the community and 28 graduated from the program
- 60 ESOL participants received hotspots and laptops
- 7,935 GB of total data usage across all participants
- Participants consistently engaged with the hotspots for business planning, research, and mentorship
“The hotspots were super easy to use and very simple to set up. One of the participants connected their laptop immediately to the hotspot during the first class. It was great that it was an unlimited plan and participants could take them anywhere.”
Jimmy Rao, Manager of Small Business and Entrepreneurship, MassHire Metro North Workforce Board
