In today’s world, access to reliable, high-speed internet is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Broadband Access for Brighter Futures is dedicated to closing the digital divide in the most disconnected communities by providing affordable broadband access and empowering residents through digital literacy and workforce development programs. Together, with public, private, and philanthropic partners, we are working to build a future where every household has the tools and opportunities to thrive in the digital age.

​​​

Innovative Collaboration for Digital Equity

Broadband Access for Brighter Futures is a groundbreaking partnership bringing together a diverse group of collaborators—data centers, utilities, fiber providers, product manufacturers, internet service providers, nonprofits, and communities. This unique collaboration addresses digital inequity and workforce development, creating a sustainable, inclusive model for engaging those left behind in the digital economy.

​

Key Milestones

• Community Partnerships: We're working with 14 communities across Chicago and its suburbs, including Austin, North Lawndale, Englewood, South Shore, Maywood, and more, to close the digital divide.

• Digital Equity & Inclusion: Over 800 devices distributed and digital literacy training for 2,000+ residents, empowering individuals with the tools to participate in today’s digital world.

• Dark Fiber Assets: We’ve secured 400 miles of high-speed fiber throughout Chicago, with plans to expand into Cook County, providing reliable internet to more homes and businesses.

• Households Connected: We’ve opened the door to high-speed internet access for entire neighborhoods, reaching thousands of potential connections and continuing to expand.

• ​

Strategic Collaborations

We partner with organizations like Preservation of Affordable Housing, Sinai Chicago, Neighborhood Network Alliance, University of Chicago, and others to drive innovation in digital equity. Together, we're doing something unprecedented—creating pathways for communities to thrive digitally.

​​

Workforce Training Opportunities

• Apprenticeship Programs: Hands-on training in Fiber Splicing and Cyber Security, preparing individuals for in-demand tech jobs through Department of Labor-backed programs.

• Cisco Networking Academy: Participants earn industry-recognized certifications, unlocking better job opportunities and long-term career success.

​​​

Project Timeline

• Phase 1 (Q4 2024 - Q2 2025): Focus on communities like Austin, North Lawndale, Woodlawn, and South Shore, aiming to connect up to 2,000 households in each pilot area. Future phases will reach over 400,000 homes across Chicago and Cook County.

​​

Join Us in Closing the Digital Divide​

 

We invite you to Collaborate, Engage, Partner, and Convene with us to transform the digital landscape and bring brighter futures to underserved communities.
​​

​

 

For inquiries, partnerships, or to learn more about our programs:

Email: info@quiltnfp.org

Social Media: LinkedIn​