What is a Digital Economy?
A digital economy is the economic activity that results from connecting people, businesses, devices, data, and operations through digital technology.
What is a Digital Economy Ecosystem (DEE)?
An interconnected system of people, programs, and structures working together to create modern prosperity.
What is a DEE Roadmap?
A strategic plan for revitalizing a rural community through advancing digital literacy, skills, jobs, innovation, entrepreneurship, and tech startups.
How many DEE communities exist in South Carolina?
At present, there are six DEE-certified communities: Barnwell, Greenwood, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg and Williamsburg Counties.
How does a rural community pursue DEE certification?
Rural communities eager to build a digital economy and ecosystem can apply through the South Carolina Rural Innovation Network website.
New DEE communities must complete an 8–10-month DEE Roadmap development process (Year 1), followed by an implementation phase (Year 2).
What are the essential readiness elements of an emerging DEE community?
DEE readiness encompasses high-speed broadband, a committed group of community champions, engaged county, city, chamber and economic development leadership, and proximity to urban centers, tech schools, and universities. Most importantly, they must recognize gaps in digital equity and digital opportunities and be eager to develop a modern economy and ecosystem to move their community forward.
What are the outcomes of a DEE Roadmap Community?
Roadmaps are customized action plans to fill local opportunity gaps with strategic projects that improve and increase digital literacy, digital skills, and digital jobs. Many DEE communities opt for strategic projects like launching an innovation center or a co-working space and supporting emerging digital/tech entrepreneurs and small businesses. A digital economy empowers residents to pursue the skills and jobs they want while remaining in the communities they love.
How much does it cost to pursue DEE certification?
Roadmap facilitation costs $115,000 per year for a single community. It includes membership in the statewide DEE Community Network, which holds regular meetings and field trips and provides other resources such as fundraising and marketing.
Roadmap facilitation and implementation can be funded via city, county, economic development, community foundation, grant, or donation. Contact SCRIN for additional ideas and support.
What are the benefits of joining the DEE Network?
Communities benefit from shared programming, resources, educational collaborations, joint fundraising projects, and special events.