Issue link: https://takingitglobal.uberflip.com/i/1505559
online platforms. Therefore, Connected North should also continue to leverage networks from community organizations with ties to Indigenous students in need of devices as outlined in the second point below. Ensuring that device access programs effectively target those most in need of devices requires more than relying on word of mouth marketing or online promotion if those not digitally connected cannot access these opportunities. Connected North should continue to leverage the networks of community organizations working to close the digital divide to better identify communities most in need. Although the number of digital literacy training programs targeting youth has seen recent growth, experts have voiced concerns over the "fragmented" and "confusing" landscape of digital programming in Canada. 46 With little coordination across jurisdictions and programs, non-formal digital training programs outside the scope of the K-12 or post-secondary education system are an "open marketplace" for those who have the disposable income to pay for program fees. 47 Leveraging the work of trusted organizations that have a pre- existing network of students or families lacking sufficient access to digital resources will help Connected North effectively identify and target Indigenous communities facing gaps in funding and who consistently report lower educational outcomes. As an example, public libraries across Canada are well-connected to groups in need of digital access and training. Moreover, the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism (CILAR) was first launched in June 2020 with the mandate to connect Black, Indigenous and People of Colour to the innovation sector by focusing on five priorities: youth skills development, job opportunities, venture and founder support, investment and funding as well as community leadership. 48 In addition, "amid the COVID-19 push toward online learning, De Beers Group donated 117 new laptops to schools in seven Indigenous communities in the Northwest Territories and 10 refurbished computers to the Yellowknife Public Library." Moreover, a number of federal initiatives have also focused on engaging youth in digital skills programming to improve educational outcomes. For example, the federal government's SSLP funds a range of national and local youth-serving organizations with the goal of providing equal access to educational resources and support systems to students who face greater barriers to education, including Indigenous students. 49 Moreover, the federal government's CanCode program also provides educational opportunities for coding and digital skills development to nearly one million Canadian youth from K-12. 50 The program aims to equip youth with skills and study incentives to prepare for the workforce, with a focus on traditionally underrepresented youth. 51 The federal government also funds the Computer for Schools Plus program, which partners with governments and community organizations across Canada to provide refurbished computer equipment at little or no cost to those who may not otherwise have access to technology and provides C O N S I D E R A T I O N 2 Leverage existing infrastructure and networks from other community organizations and First Nation organizations that provide upskilling programs and scholarships to identify and target communities in-need. Impact of Connected North's Digital Inclusion Grant on IndigenousStudents' Learning, Social Connection and Community Involvement 27