DigitalC Secures Major Funding to Expand Cleveland's Digital Infrastructure in 2025
DigitalC, a nonprofit organization seeking to address digital inequality, has successfully obtained $2.76 million in funding from the Cleveland City Council. This financial backing will allow DigitalC to expand its citywide digital initiative, known as the PinnanCLE Connectivity Initiative, over its first year. With this funding, the organization aims to install its community-based network and provide essential digital skills training to the residents of Cleveland.
The initiative employs cutting-edge Fixed Wireless Access (ngFWA) technology from Tarana Wireless LLC, a key innovation aimed at improving internet service delivery across the city. Joshua Edmonds, CEO of DigitalC, expressed his gratitude, stating that this funding is a significant step toward providing high-quality, affordable broadband services to the underserved communities in Cleveland. “This investment enables us to maintain our momentum and ultimately fulfill our mission to bridge the digital divide – for good,” Edmonds emphasized.
In the first year, DigitalC's ambitious program has already yielded impressive results. The organization managed to connect 2,802 households to its high-speed internet service, Canopy. This achievement represents 80 percent of its target, which was to connect 3,500 households during this initial phase. The success of these efforts is underscored by the network’s extension to over 80,000 homes, significantly enhancing connectivity across the Cleveland area.
DigitalC has also surpassed its objectives for digital skills training, having educated 7,610 residents—110 more than the anticipated target. This educational initiative is crucial for equipping the community with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital-first environment. With training programs focusing on vital areas such as telehealth, online education, and remote work, DigitalC is empowering Clevelanders to better navigate the digital landscape.
As DigitalC progresses into the second year of its contract, it is well-positioned to connect an additional 4,700 households by the end of 2025. The organization’s operational enhancements and key permits are now in place, setting the stage for continued growth and success. Edmonds also thanked Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb and the City Council for their unwavering support, highlighting the collaboration among public, private, and philanthropic partners that will ultimately benefit the community.
In recognition of its initiatives, Cleveland has been acknowledged as a 2024 Visionary Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, reflecting its leadership in promoting digital equity. Meanwhile, DigitalC received the Community Improvement Award from Broadband Communities' Cornerstone Awards. Furthermore, DigitalC's Canopy service was honored on the National Digital Inclusion Alliance's Honor Roll of Low-Cost Internet Plans.
To support its rapid growth, DigitalC also completed the Scalerator NEO program, sponsored by the Burton D. Morgan Foundation. This accomplishment demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development in the region. Cleveland residents seeking to subscribe to Canopy can do so for only $18 per month by calling 216-777-3859 or visiting digitalc.org. The fully operational citywide network is projected to be completed by mid-2025, solidifying DigitalC's role in shaping a more digitally inclusive future.
Established to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable internet services, DigitalC aims to deliver not just connectivity but also community spaces and tailored digital training. By fostering these core areas, the organization is set to drive transformative changes in the Cleveland community, enabling future generations to thrive in the increasingly digital world.
The initiative employs cutting-edge Fixed Wireless Access (ngFWA) technology from Tarana Wireless LLC, a key innovation aimed at improving internet service delivery across the city. Joshua Edmonds, CEO of DigitalC, expressed his gratitude, stating that this funding is a significant step toward providing high-quality, affordable broadband services to the underserved communities in Cleveland. “This investment enables us to maintain our momentum and ultimately fulfill our mission to bridge the digital divide – for good,” Edmonds emphasized.
In the first year, DigitalC's ambitious program has already yielded impressive results. The organization managed to connect 2,802 households to its high-speed internet service, Canopy. This achievement represents 80 percent of its target, which was to connect 3,500 households during this initial phase. The success of these efforts is underscored by the network’s extension to over 80,000 homes, significantly enhancing connectivity across the Cleveland area.
DigitalC has also surpassed its objectives for digital skills training, having educated 7,610 residents—110 more than the anticipated target. This educational initiative is crucial for equipping the community with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital-first environment. With training programs focusing on vital areas such as telehealth, online education, and remote work, DigitalC is empowering Clevelanders to better navigate the digital landscape.
As DigitalC progresses into the second year of its contract, it is well-positioned to connect an additional 4,700 households by the end of 2025. The organization’s operational enhancements and key permits are now in place, setting the stage for continued growth and success. Edmonds also thanked Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb and the City Council for their unwavering support, highlighting the collaboration among public, private, and philanthropic partners that will ultimately benefit the community.
In recognition of its initiatives, Cleveland has been acknowledged as a 2024 Visionary Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, reflecting its leadership in promoting digital equity. Meanwhile, DigitalC received the Community Improvement Award from Broadband Communities' Cornerstone Awards. Furthermore, DigitalC's Canopy service was honored on the National Digital Inclusion Alliance's Honor Roll of Low-Cost Internet Plans.
To support its rapid growth, DigitalC also completed the Scalerator NEO program, sponsored by the Burton D. Morgan Foundation. This accomplishment demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development in the region. Cleveland residents seeking to subscribe to Canopy can do so for only $18 per month by calling 216-777-3859 or visiting digitalc.org. The fully operational citywide network is projected to be completed by mid-2025, solidifying DigitalC's role in shaping a more digitally inclusive future.
Established to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable internet services, DigitalC aims to deliver not just connectivity but also community spaces and tailored digital training. By fostering these core areas, the organization is set to drive transformative changes in the Cleveland community, enabling future generations to thrive in the increasingly digital world.
Topics Consumer Technology）
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