Marvin OnumonuWest Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said the authority is giving unemployed people free laptops, data and digital skills training to help them get back into work.
The scheme will start in Leeds and will be extended across West Yorkshire.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is investing £250,000 in the project, which is being delivered with local authorities and voluntary sector partners.
Brabin said: “Too many people in West Yorkshire are locked out of opportunity because they can’t get online or don’t have the skills they need to confidently use the internet. That isn’t fair on people and isn’t healthy for our economy.
“Today’s funding means more people will get a device and hands-on support to build their confidence – so they can find good jobs, access training, manage their health, and connect with the essential online services that make everyday life easier.
“Through our ambitious Healthy Working Life partnership with the NHS, we’re bringing together the practical, personalised and trusted support that people need to succeed, helping us build a brighter West Yorkshire that works for all.”
The pilot will see recipients get a free device such as a laptop, at least five hours of digital skills training, and free data or Wi-Fi.
The aim is to support those least able to access good jobs in the local labour market.
Fatima Khan-Shah, chair of digital inclusion West Yorkshire and inclusivity champion, said: “In today’s world, more and more is online – from banking to health appointments to job applications.
“Yet we also know a fifth of our working-age residents lack the essential digital skills they need to work and thrive. This can and must change.
“Our pioneering Digital Inclusion West Yorkshire programme has supported almost 300 organisations to back people’s digital skills, building confidence and putting more money into people’s pockets.”
Khan-Shah added: “As chair of the digital inclusion group it has been humbling to see and hear the impact this has had.
“This new funding will help us to go even further, ensuring that everyone in the region can access the basics of life and have a fair chance at flourishing.”
The announcement was made at GIPSIL in East Leeds, which supports local communities.
GIPSIL is one of the organisations giving out devices, data and training, working with 100% Digital Leeds.
This is a partnership between Leeds City Council and Leeds Health and Care Partnership.
Louise Forrest, director of development and partnerships at GIPSIL, said: “This funding from WYCA is transformational.
“It allows us to reach young people who are not only struggling with their mental health but are also disconnected from education, employment, and opportunity.
“With this support, we can walk alongside them – building confidence, restoring hope, and opening doors to a future they may have thought was out of reach.”
