Bloomington recognized as digital inclusion trailblazer
Bloomington has been recognized as a 2025 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, joining 58 other communities across the country working to close the digital divide, according to a community announcement.
Digital inclusion involves ensuring access to affordable high-speed internet, devices and digital skills training. Bloomington has been working toward digital equity through various initiatives.
“Creating an equitable community means ensuring every resident has the tools and access they need to succeed, including in the digital realm,” Mayor Kerry Thomson said in the announcement. “From helping children access remote learning to supporting job seekers and ensuring older adults stay connected, these efforts touch every aspect of our community’s well-being.”
Angela Siefer, executive director of the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving digital equity.
“Nonprofits, libraries, churches and other community organizations can’t reach digital equity on their own. For everyone to thrive in today’s digital world, we need all hands on deck,” Siefer said in the announcement.
Bloomington’s digital inclusion efforts
Bloomington achieved Trailblazer status by prioritizing digital inclusion through several initiatives:
- Conducting a Digital Equity Survey and Strategic Plan.
- Launching a Digital Equity Grants Fund program for local nonprofit partners.
- Investing in digital equity staffing within the City’s ITS Department.
- Developing a Digital Equity Plan with Meridiam to make broadband access ubiquitous and affordable across the city.
The Trailblazer program highlights best practices in digital inclusion. Each applicant’s materials are verified for accuracy and assessed for community impact. The materials are then posted in an interactive map and searchable database on NDIA’s website.
About the National Digital Inclusion Alliance
The National Digital Inclusion Alliance supports community programs and policymakers to advance digital equity. The organization works with more than 2,000 affiliates and advocates for equitable broadband access, tech devices, digital skills training and tech support, according to the announcement.
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