ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COLLABORATIVE EXPANDS DIGITAL UPSKILLING TRAINING INITIATIVE TO SANTA BARBARA COUNTY
FREE computer training programs for beginners and business owners for Santa Barbara County residents enrolling now
GOLETA, Calif. – The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) celebrates a groundbreaking achievement as it extends its Digital Upskilling Training Program to Santa Barbara County, forging a collaborative partnership with the City of Goleta. Originating in Ventura County, EDC’s Digital Upskilling Training Program is a pioneering short-term training program expanding digital skills training opportunities. In addition to the program’s training goals, the initiative strives to create a replicable model that can be expanded statewide.
Marking the first major stride towards achieving this goal, EDC joins forces with the City of Goleta to offer two FREE training courses to Santa Barbara County residents. Central Coast Community Energy generously provides funding to support this initiative and the Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast, an additional EDC initiative, assists with implementation across Santa Barbara County, emphasizing the shared commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth.
EDC provides the class curriculum, comprehensive instructor training, program evaluation guidelines and administrative tools for each class. The Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast, an additional EDC initiative, assists with implementation across Santa Barbara County, and partnering organizations such as the American GI Forum Education Foundation and Women’s Economic Ventures host the classes. By developing a replicable training course and expansion model, EDC supports accessible access to digital education and economic empowerment opportunities.
Two courses start in February 2024, with additional cohorts beginning in spring and summer 2024:
- New to Tech Computer Basics- A 6-week course that teaches adult learners essential computer skills needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
- Get Your Small Business Online- A 9-week course that teaches business owners and entrepreneurs essential digital skills needed to get online.
These classes aim to empower individuals with the fundamental digital skills necessary to thrive in today’s technology-driven landscape. Prospective students in Santa Barbara County can learn more about the classes and register at https://www.digital-upskilling.edcollaborative.com/
With a focus on scalability, EDC actively encourages other regions and organizations throughout California to explore the potential of adopting and expanding similar programs. For organizations interested in replicating the success of these courses, EDC invites inquiries at upskill@edcollaborative.com to access comprehensive class replication toolkits. These toolkits include detailed instructor guides and program evaluation and administration tools, ensuring seamless and effective implementation.
EDC extends its gratitude to the City of Goleta, Central Coast Community Energy, Broadband Consortium of the Pacific Coast, American GI Forum Education Foundation and Women’s Economic Ventures for their pivotal roles in expanding digital upskilling opportunities across the Central Coast.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact EDC’s Communications & Marketing Manager, Tracie Schneider, at Tracie@edcollaborative.com.
###
About Economic Development Collaborative
A private nonprofit, the Economic Development Collaborative was founded in 1996 with funding from the County of Ventura, the 10 cities in the county and key private-sector companies to provide a pathway to business growth, economic prosperity and high quality of life for all.
Today, in partnership with the Small Business Development Center, the EDC is a regional asset for economic vitality in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties, giving businesses, community partners and civic leaders the resources they need to succeed. By leveraging public and private funds, the EDC has become a key player in delivering business consulting, funding and strategic initiatives that support the region.
About Digital Upskilling Training Program
Originating in Ventura County, EDC’s Digital Upskilling Training Program is a NO-COST short-term training program that will increase the digital skills of job seekers, current workers, and small business operators. The initiative seeks to expand participants’ opportunities and earning power by providing them with much-needed digital skills training to help both individuals and employers grow.
This initiative was made possible by State Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, who developed the project idea and secured $5 million in state general funds for a Digital Upskilling pilot in Ventura County.
