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The Fund for Digital Equity

We work with communities to finance and build the internet infrastructure they need to participate fully in a digital society
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Half of humanity lacks internet access

Those without connectivity are missing a critical lifeline to work, learn, access services, and participate fully in today’s world.

Connect Humanity is a non-profit impact fund working to change that, combining tailored investments, strategic advice, and technical guidance so that everyone can connect to fast, affordable, reliable internet access.

  • Traditional telecom operators have not and will not solve this problem. Current government efforts, though welcome, will not get the job done.
  • A growing ecosystem of community networks, municipal providers, and small businesses are connecting the unconnected — but lack access to the kinds of capital they need.
  • By investing in the community-focused ISPs best placed to close the digital divide, we expand fast, affordable broadband in underserved communities.

The costs of digital inequity are real:

  • 1 in 3 kids were unable to connect during the pandemic and lost a year or more of education.
  • Man sitting at laptop
    80% of jobs are now posted exclusively online. 92% of US jobs require digital skills.
  • It’s increasingly difficult to participate in democracy and access government services without broadband.
  • Senior citizen smiles as she watches a video on a cellphone
    Connectivity has been recognized as a "super determinant" of health.
  • African American family sitting together
    Communities of color are disproportionately underconnected due to persistent digital redlining.

How we work

We are matchmakers

We connect underserved communities with ISPs and investors, bridging gaps in understanding and aligning interests to foster strong partnerships.

We are investors

We pioneer new models to sustainably finance community-focused ISPs on terms they and the communities they serve can afford. Our deals are structured to empower communities, with incentives and accountability mechanisms to ensure providers deliver on commitments.

We catalyze more capital

Sharing our investment insights and strategies, we’re proving that community broadband is a viable asset class. Our funder partnerships unlock more finance to power the ISPs that can close the digital divide.

We advocate for community broadband

We share the insights we gather as digital equity funders to influence policy, improve practices, and support allies who share our mission.

Find out more

Digitalization is happening.

Digital equity depends on all of us.

Learn more about our approach:

Our work

Learn more about the support we provide:

Our funds

Or contact us