Local initiatives:
City of Boston
Locality Website:
City of Boston Broadband and Digital Equity
Locality contact:
Peter Favorito
Digital Equity & Inclusion Advocate
Broadband and Cable, Department of Information and Technology
Kerry Jordan
Chief of Staff
Department of Innovation and Technology
Digital Equity/Inclusion Coordinator:
City of Boston Broadband and Cable, Department of Information Technology
Digital Equity/Inclusion Resources:
City of Boston Digital Equity Fund: The Digital Equity Fund provides grant funding for nonprofits to support projects that help people use the Internet, allow communities to participate in civic engagement safely and securely, make decisions based on need, and work to connect unconnected households.
Wicked Free Wi-Fi: Wicked Free Wi-Fi is the City of Boston's free outdoor wireless network.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): The City of Boston’s ACP landing page contains information about what the benefit is, who is eligible, how to apply, best tips, and more in over twelve languages.
Boston Neighborhood Network Media Education and Training: The Boston Public Library offers computer and technology classes that include beginner-level computer classes, job searching and resume assistance, email and online tool support, and more.
Internet Speed Survey: This anonymous survey provides useful information about how the internet is being used at home in the City of Boston and what barriers may exist. Completed surveys will enable the city to make informed decisions in efforts to cement digital equity in its broadband and wireless infrastructure.
Online Digital Skills Training: The City of Boston created a webpage with links to free, online digital skills resources for residents to use, whether they are first-time learners or brushing up on their skills.
Tips for Faster Internet Speeds: With more folks using the same in-home internet connection, it has never been more crucial to have fast, reliable, and affordable internet. Therefore, the City of Boston created a webpage outlining several effective ways to improve internet connection at home, many of which come at little to no cost at all.
Digital Equity/Inclusion Plan:
The City of Boston’s Digital Equity/Inclusion plan is currently underway. In the Fall of 2022, the City published a Digital Equity Assessment in partnership with CTC Technology & Energy, which covers the state of digital equity work, broadband services, and recommendations for the City to implement or continue implementing to further close the digital divide.
City of Cambridge
Locality contact:
Conrad Crawford
Digital Equity and Broadband Program Strategist
Department of Information Technology
Digital Equity/Inclusion Coordinator:
Department of Information Technology
Digital Equity/Inclusion Resources:
Digital Equity in Cambridge: Data and Strategic Recommendations: The Digital Equity in Cambridge report is a comprehensive study that outlines issues Cambridge residents face to make meaningful use of high-speed Internet access. Also, the report provides recommendations to address these findings around broadband access, affordability, digital skills, and device ownership.
The Literacy Project: The Cambridge Public Library offers computer basics classes on a first-come-first-served basis throughout the year.