Cook County Launches Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program to Foster Community Storytelling and Digital Inclusion

(Cook County, IL) — In a significant effort to bridge the digital divide, the Cook County Office of the President announced today the launch of the Cook County Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program. The program will support community organizations in using storytelling as a tool to promote digital inclusion. Funded with $187,500 provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), this initiative builds upon the County’s Digital Equity Action Plan and underscores Cook County’s ongoing commitment to ensuring equitable digital access for all residents. Grant awardees will receive $7,500 or $15,000 depending on the size and scope of their project.

Cook County has partnered with City Bureau, an innovative nonprofit journalism lab, to co-design and implement this program. Together, Cook County and City Bureau aim to empower organizations to tell stories that highlight digital equity challenges and solutions, contributing to a more connected and inclusive County.

“The launch of the Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program is a key milestone in our work to ensure that every Cook County resident has access to the digital resources they need to thrive in today's economy,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “By partnering with City Bureau, we are not only addressing barriers to technology that many communities face but also enabling local organizations to share their unique stories with the world.”

This initiative aligns with the four key pillars of the Cook County Digital Equity Action Plan: access, confidence, safety and infrastructure. The grants will enable community organizations to craft narratives that highlight digital equity issues and solutions while advocating for lasting, community-driven change.

Kyla Williams Tate, Director of Digital Equity for the Cook County Office of the President, emphasized the power of stories in shaping a more equitable digital future. “Through the Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program, we aim to elevate voices that have historically been marginalized in the digital narrative. By supporting these organizations, we are building a network of storytellers who can advocate for their communities and inspire lasting change.”

City Bureau, renowned for its unique approach to local media and community-centered storytelling, will play a central role in the program’s success. Their expertise will ensure that the initiative addresses digital access, and also fosters a sense of confidence and security for residents as they navigate the digital landscape.

"We are thrilled to partner with Cook County on the Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program," said Morgan Malone, Executive Director of City Bureau. "Storytelling is a powerful tool for driving digital equity, and this initiative allows us to empower communities by amplifying their voices and stories. Together, we are committed to building a more inclusive digital landscape where every community can thrive."

The grant application window opens on October 11, 2024, with a webinar scheduled for October 17, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to register for the webinar at https://bit.ly/digitalequityimpactgrant. All applications must be submitted by November 15, 2024. For more information on the Cook County Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program and how to apply, please visit www.cookcountyil.gov/service/digital-equity.