Beyond Access and Infrastructure

Abstract This article presents a multiple case study of context in shaping local digital equity policies in three communities in Michigan, United States. Few studies have systematically investigated local context to understand its potential impacts on the development of sustainable information policies in rural communities. By applying the Digital Opportunities Compass, a framework for examining contextual factors that impact community-based digital equity programs and policy, the study found that local context can both positively and negatively impact the development of policies and programs. These findings have implications for local and state policymaking, particularly for considering the community assets and invested champions.