The Fund for Digital Opportunity
We work with communities to finance and build the internet infrastructure they need to participate fully in a digital society
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 the digital divide are real:
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1 in 3 kids were unable to connect during the pandemic and lost a year or more of education. -
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. -
Connectivity has been recognized as a "super determinant" of health. -
Communities of color are disproportionately underconnected due to persistent digital redlining.
How we Work
- Matchmakers
- Investors
- Catalyzers
- Advocates
Matchmakers
We connect underserved communities with ISPs and investors, bridging gaps in understanding and aligning interests to foster strong partnerships.
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Investors
We are investors, pioneering 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.
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Catalyzers
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.
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Advocates
We advocate for community broadband, sharing the insights we gather as digital opportunity funders to influence policy, improve practices, and support allies who share our mission.
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Learn more about our approach
Our workReady to invest in digital opportunity?
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