NCW Tech Alliance opens applications for Ephrata digital skills program

EPHRATA — NCW Tech Alliance is accepting applications for a nine-week digital skills program aimed at helping small businesses in Grant County and surrounding areas use technology in their day-to-day operations.

The iLumina Ephrata Digital Skills Accelerator will run Oct. 14 through Dec. 17, with classes held Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Ephrata. The cohort is limited to 20 businesses.

The program will provide hands-on instruction in digital tools and workflows, workspace and file organization, artificial intelligence tools for business, websites, search engine optimization, online business information and digital systems for routine business tasks.

Organizers said the program is intended for established small-business owners and operators seeking to improve their use of technology, including websites and online presence, email and file organization, AI tools and systems used to help customers find information about their businesses.

No advanced technology experience is required. Applicants must own or operate an established small business and be prepared to participate consistently throughout the nine-week program.

“Small-business owners are often managing customer service, websites, operations, marketing and technology all at once,” David Mabee, marketing director of NCW Tech Alliance, said. “iLumina is designed to give business owners practical support and time to build digital skills they can immediately put to work in their businesses.”

The program is funded by a grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and is offered in partnership with NCW Tech Alliance, America’s SBDC Washington, SkillSource and the Grant County Economic Development Council.

Applications are due Friday, Oct. 2, for priority consideration. Applications received after the deadline may be considered if space remains available.

Program information, applications, live instruction, course materials and support are available in English and Spanish.

Applications and additional information are available at www.ncwtech.org/project-ilumina.

Program organizers said applicants will be evaluated using standardized criteria and scoring. Selection decisions will not be based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status or income level. Language access services are available at no cost.