Overview

The Digital Life Exchange (DLX) is a collaborative digital infrastructure that connects a network of direct-service organizations and resource providers across the Kansas City region. Coordinated by KC Digital Drive, the DLX enables partners to share tools, capacity, and services that help residents fully participate in today’s digital world.

The DLX functions as an exchange—allowing organizations to access and contribute resources like devices, connectivity support, digital skills training, and navigation services. This model helps maximize limited resources, reduce duplication, and ensure more residents can get the support they need through trusted community partners.

As digital participation becomes essential to everyday life, many organizations are navigating increased demand for technology support without the infrastructure to meet it alone. DLX strengthens this ecosystem by making digital services more coordinated, scalable, and accessible.

Device Access is a DLX Feature

Device Access is a core feature of DLX, providing a coordinated way for member organizations to distribute laptops and Chromebooks to individuals who need them most.

Through the DLX, members can:

• Provide free or low-cost laptops and Chromebooks to clients
• Connect residents to affordable internet options available in their area
• Request and distribute devices as inventory becomes available across the network
• Ensure recipients have access to ongoing support and digital navigation

By embedding device distribution within a broader support system, the DLX ensures that access to technology is paired with the guidance needed to use it effectively.

Why Device Access Matters

Access to a computer is foundational to participating in modern life. Devices enable individuals and families to engage in:

• Education – completing coursework, accessing learning platforms, and building digital skills
• Employment – applying for jobs, working remotely, and developing career pathways
• Communication – staying connected to family, services, and community
• Information Access – navigating healthcare, government services, and daily needs
• Creativity & Innovation – building new ideas, businesses, and opportunities
• Personal Organization – managing finances, schedules, and essential documents

The Need in Kansas City

Despite growing reliance on digital tools, access to devices remains a significant barrier across the region. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 American Community Survey (ACS):

• Nearly 150,000 households (17.5%) in the Kansas City metro lack a desktop or laptop
• Over 75,000 households (9%) rely on a smartphone only
• Nearly 30,000 households (3.4%) have no device at all

Device access gaps are especially pronounced among low-income households. In Missouri, only 78% of households earning under $35,000/year report having a computer at home, compared to 88% of households overall.

Internet Affordability Coaching

Access to a device only matters if people can get online at home. Through the DLX, members can receive personalized internet affordability coaching to identify the best low-cost options available at their address.

Support includes:

• A customized view of available internet providers and plans
• Guidance on low-cost offers and library hotspot programs
• Simple tools to understand recommended speeds based on household needs
• Strategies to reduce existing internet costs

This ensures participants leave with both a device and a clear path to connectivity.

Resources:

• View this Sample of an Internet Plan Affordability Chart here
• View the “Internet Speeds to Meet Your Needs” downloadable flyer here

Dedicated Device Access in Kansas

KC Digital Drive’s DLX expanded across the Kansas side of the KC metro through a dedicated initiative funded by the State of Kansas, delivering devices and wraparound support through a network of trusted, community-based partners.

These partners serve residents facing persistent barriers to digital participation—including low-income households, job seekers, English language learners, and families navigating housing or workforce transitions. By working through trusted organizations, DLX ensures technology reaches those who need it most.

KS DLX Device Access distribution partners include: 

• Avenue of Life
• Build WyCo
• Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas
• Donnelly College
• Downtown Shareholders KCK
• El Centro
• Growing Futures
• Jewish Family Services
• Jobs for Americas Graduates – Kansas
• Kansas City Kansas Community College
• Latinx Education Collaborative
• NCircle
• Phoenix Family
• Sumner Academy of Arts & Sciences PTSA
• The Mission Project
• The Toolbox
• The Village Initiative
• Veterans Upward Bound
• Workforce Partnership
• Wyandotte PTSA
  

More Than a Device

DLX pairs device distribution with hands-on setup and support, delivered in partnership with TechConnect KC.

Participants receive one-on-one help to:

• Set up and begin using their device
• Connect to affordable internet options
• Build confidence using essential digital tools

This approach ensures devices are used immediately, and not left in the box.

The Impact

Access to a computer and internet can reduce daily stress, save time, and open pathways to education, employment, and better health outcomes.

Participants consistently share the difference it makes:

• “Thanks to my computer, I was able to study for my first exam and I passed it.”
• “This device has opened up a whole new life. Thank you!!!!!”
• “It’s brought back a sense of importance. It has also given me the motivation to continue my education and plan for the future.“
• “It’s my first time having a computer, so I’m happy and blessed, thank you.”

Funding

This work is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award CPFFN0139 through the Kansas Office of Broadband Development’s ADOPT 2.0 program, alongside matching support from the Kauffman Foundation and KC Digital Drive.

Get Involved

DLX continues to expand to meet ongoing device and connectivity needs across the region.To learn more or get involved, contact Leslie Scott at lscott at kcdigitaldrive dot org.

Check out the Digital Life Exchange page to learn how to become a member.