In a strategic move to propel the region's digital landscape, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is launching a revitalized Digital Roadmap. This blueprint outlines a collaborative effort to empower hundreds of thousands of residents with digital skills, enhance broadband connectivity, and optimize data and technology for improved public services and environmental sustainability.

The refreshed Digital Roadmap builds on the West Midlands' reputation as the UK's best-connected authority area for 5G coverage. Despite this achievement, challenges such as high digital poverty rates (46% of the population being non or limited internet users) and lower usage of digital public services compared to the national average are acknowledged.

Mayor Andy Street emphasizes the region's commitment to digital inclusivity, leveraging the expertise of local innovators. The West Midlands boasts a thriving digital economy worth £15.3 billion, with recent recognition as a 5G Innovation Region.

To address digital poverty, £4 million secured through the Deeper Devolution Deal is allocated to provide over 20,000 residents with digital devices. An additional £15 million investment focuses on bespoke training schemes to meet the growing skills demand in the flourishing tech sector.

Cllr Patrick Harley underscores the importance of updating the Digital Roadmap as a call to action for collaborative efforts in creating a digitally inclusive economy. The West Midlands Tech Commissioner, Martin Ward, emphasizes the need to embrace digital technologies for economic growth, positioning the region as a global tech superpower.

Robert Franks, MD of WM5G, highlights the foundation of the digital economy—universal access to fast connectivity. While the region leads in 5G and gigabit broadband coverage, efforts are ongoing to address areas lacking connectivity and reduce cost barriers to adoption.

As the West Midlands charts a course for digital empowerment, this initiative signifies a transformative step toward a more connected and innovative future for the region.