Baltimore Digital Equity Coalition

The Baltimore Digital Equity Coalition (BDEC) connects committed organizations and individuals to coordinated efforts that seek to advance digital equity and close the digital divide. A cohort of over 50 member organizations, BDEC works to address both the urgent and long-term need for increased digital access throughout the city of Baltimore. Initially formed as a “rapid response” effort in the wake of COVID-19 closures and shutdowns, the Coalition acknowledges the deep-rooted and systemic history of digital inequity, and aims to close the digital divide in Baltimore by providing: Access to Devices – Ensuring there are affordable, available, and sufficient devices for all historically underrepresented residents, small businesses, and community organizations. Greater Internet Connectivity – Ensuring there are sufficient options for affordable and available internet connectivity for all. Digital Skills Training and Technical Support – Creating and delivering educational opportunities for all residents, and ensuring there is technical support available to all who need it. Advocacy – Engaging elected officials, civic leaders, and citizens most affected by the digital divide to advocate for equal access to computers, internet connectivity, and digital literacy. This work is accomplished using a collective impact model, with a workgroup dedicated to each of the above goals.