Net Inclusion 2025 concluded two weeks ago, and the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) Team is still elated by the immense community support in this pivotal time for digital equity. With it being NDIA’s tenth anniversary, this year’s Net Inclusion was special. Held on the beautiful sovereign Land of the Gila River Indian Community, Net Inclusion 2025 brought together passionate digital inclusion practitioners and community leaders committed to advancing digital equity.
This gathering underscored the importance of community in tackling the digital divide and provided a platform for inspiring conversations and initiatives. Here’s a brief recap of some key moments from each day:
The conference kicked off with a heartfelt blessing from Kristopher Dosela, setting a tone of gratitude and respect for the Land hundreds of community members gathered on. The Honorable Governor Stephen Roe Lewis and Ginger Sunbird Martin provided a welcome and Land Acknowledgement, honoring the Akimel O’otham (Pima) and Pee-Posh (Maricopa) Tribes, enriching Net Inclusion’s significance. Attendees were treated to an enchanting performance by Akimel O’otham basket dancers and singers, which celebrated the vibrant culture of the community. This opening day served as a reminder of the powerful connection between digital inclusion efforts and the rich heritage of the Gila River Indian Community.
Day one was packed with meaningful sessions on various topics, from telehealth to bridging the digital divide for multilingual learners. NDIA also offered ten workshops for attendees to participate in interactive learning.
The first day concluded with a Welcome Reception and celebration of NDIA’s 10th “birthday”.
Day two featured an inspiring address by NDIA Executive Director Angela Siefer, who passionately urged all attendees to continue the work of advancing digital equity.
Three major sessions delved into pressing topics: “DEA: Defend, Educate, Advocate,” “AI Skills ARE Digital Skills,” and a special plenary/fireside chat titled “Policy Pulse: Digital Equity and Broadband Policy Updates.” These discussions fostered critical dialogue on DEA’s future, the inclusion of AI within digital skills development, and policy updates surrounding digital inclusion work.
The second day of Net Inclusion ended with the honoring of Seven Star Communities awardees, highlighting Native entities for their excellence in providing sustainable solutions to support their digital inclusion ecosystems, and Digital Inclusion Trailblazers awardees, recognizing cities that are setting a national standard for excellent digital inclusion work.
Day 3: A Grand Finale
The final day’s breakout session, “Integrating Cybersecurity and Online Safety into Digital Literacy Inclusion,” armed attendees with the knowledge to critically address safety in our increasingly digital world. Following the sessions, attendees had the unique opportunity to take site tours of various digital inclusion initiatives throughout the Gila River Indian Community, witnessing firsthand the impact of our collective efforts in digital equity.
As the Net Inclusion 2025 conference drew to a close, we were reminded of the vital work ahead and the importance of gathering to advance our shared mission. Let’s continue the momentum toward greater digital inclusion and equity.
Watch session recordings from each day of Net Inclusion 2025 here, and access the collaborative session notes here!
Join NDIA for Net Inclusion 2026, February 3-5, in the Windy City! From its stunning skyline and top-notch museums to its famous deep-dish pizza, Chicago offers a diverse and fulfilling experience. What better place to gain digital equity insights, ignite change, and amplify your impact in the digital inclusion movement?