Major Milestones and Community Impact Showcase City's Progress in Fulfilling its Digital Inclusion Strategy

BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, March 12, 2025) - Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott and the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity (BDE), a division of the Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology, released the report "Broadband and Digital Equity: Progress, Success and Lessons Learned". The report showcases significant strides in bridging the digital divide and advancing Baltimore's Digital Inclusion Strategy. The report also underscores Mayor Brandon M. Scott's commitment to equitable neighborhood development by creating access to technology, improving broadband infrastructure, and fostering digital literacy across all communities.

"Baltimore's Digital Inclusion Strategy is our strategic roadmap for advancing digital equity across our city," said Mayor Scott. "Through targeted investments, thoughtful partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, we are making real progress in closing the digital divide. This report highlights the impact of our approach and reaffirms our commitment to ensuring every resident has the tools and access needed to thrive in a connected world. While we've made significant strides, our work is far from finished."

Reflecting on the City's progress, Baltimore City's Interim Chief Information Officer Leyla Layman underscored the tangible benefits of digital inclusion efforts. "This report not only captures the milestones we've achieved but also showcases the real-world impact on our communities," said Layman. "From expanding broadband access to providing digital literacy resources, every initiative moves us closer to a more connected and inclusive Baltimore. We remain steadfast in our commitment to bridging the digital divide for all residents."

Key Accomplishments in Digital Equity

The report highlights several impactful programs and partnerships that have been instrumental in moving the City closer to its digital equity goals:

• Expansion of FreeBmoreWiFi: Baltimore has broadened the reach of FreeBmoreWiFi, its free public Wi-Fi network, to underserved neighborhoods. This expansion ensures residents can access critical services, job opportunities, and educational resources, especially in areas with historically limited connectivity.
• Digital Skills Training: Through partnerships with local nonprofits and organizations, the City has delivered digital skills training programs to thousands of residents. These programs have helped residents of all ages build essential digital skills, enhancing their educational and career prospects.
• Device Distribution and Support: Through initiatives such as the Baltimore Chromebook Distribution Program, the City has provided thousands of devices to families and individuals in need. These efforts are crucial in ensuring residents can stay connected, learn, and participate fully in the digital age.

Progress Toward Baltimore's Digital Inclusion Strategy

The report outlines Baltimore's progress in achieving the goals set forth in the Digital Inclusion Strategy, which prioritizes equitable internet access, skills development, and community engagement. With Mayor Brandon M. Scott's vision of "Closing the Digital Divide Once and For All," the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity has intensified its focus on initiatives that address systemic barriers to digital access.

Looking Ahead

Building on these accomplishments, BDE is poised to advance its mission in 2025. Upcoming initiatives include the expansion of affordable broadband access to public housing, additional digital skills training programs tailored to youth and older adults, and deeper collaboration with community organizations to ensure Baltimore's most vulnerable populations are connected and equipped with digital resources.

Access the Full Report

View the report.

Direct all media inquiries to Rafael McFadden. Moving forward, the report will be released every October to align with Digital Inclusion Week- a time when organizations and individuals nationwide highlight efforts and set new goals for closing the digital divide. Baltimore City's Digital Inclusion Strategy

Released December 2023, Baltimore City's Digital Inclusion Strategy aims to further develop Baltimore's digital infrastructure and help residents and businesses harness the power of technology for their benefit and the betterment of Baltimore. Read the full strategy.

About the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity

The Office of Broadband and Digital Equity (BDE), a division of the Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology, leads the City's efforts to close the digital divide permanently and serves as Baltimore City government's primary liaison with internal and external stakeholders in digital equity. BDE envisions Baltimore as a city where residents can fully participate in the digital ecosystem and have access to devices, technical assistance, digital education, and affordable and reliable internet in the home. For more information about the city's BDE programs and initiatives, sign up for BDE's bi-monthly update, email bde@baltimorecity.gov, or call (443) 984-9740.