Wilmington City Council approves DigitalBridge for workforce development

City Council unanimously voted to use ARPA money to fund a program called DigitalBridge

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The City of Wilmington is investing $2.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to connect its residents with jobs.

At its meeting Tuesday night, City Council unanimously voted to use ARPA money to fund a program called DigitalBridge.

It will provide training, access, and connection to in-demand jobs for anyone seeking a career in a higher-paying digital field.

Councilman Luke Waddell says he’s excited to give residents an opportunity to learn valuable skills.

“I think it’s the most innovative and really the best use of ARPA funding that I’ve seen probably anywhere in the state, maybe the nation,” Waddell said. “It’s exciting to see the stakeholders in the community getting behind this. I really look forward to a successful project and just excited the City of Wilmington’s got its name on it.”

Earlier this month, Mayor Bill Saffo told WWAY the program would be implemented through a partnership with organizations such as “Step Up Wilmington”, to help with skills training for area jobs.

It is expected to launch in early 2023.