Cleveland’s Digital Divide Is Finally Shrinking—Here’s What’s Driving It
Just a few months ago, the future of DigitalC—the nonprofit internet service provider dedicated to digital equity in Cleveland—seemed uncertain. After falling short of its 2024 subscriber target, the organization faced public scrutiny from the Cleveland City Council’s Public Utilities Committee. In response to the shortfall, the Council voted to withhold nearly $1 million in funding. While DigitalC faced a shortfall in 2024, it was largely the result of delayed access to door-to-door engagement permits—an essential outreach strategy that was not made available until late 2024.
Today, the story has shifted.
In the first quarter of 2025, DigitalC connected 1,148 new households, bringing its total number of connected homes to 3,949 since launching the PinnaCLE Connectivity Initiative in January 2024. That represents a 276% increase compared to the same quarter last year.
Equally significant is the expansion of their network. In just one quarter, DigitalC increased its household coverage from 67,403 to 98,130—a 46% leap. This growth is not just technical; it’s transformational, enabling residents in more neighborhoods than ever before to access fast, affordable, and community-first internet.
Public satisfaction with the service remains strong. According to a recent survey conducted by the City of Cleveland, 87% of users rate the service’s reliability as excellent or good. 90% say they’re getting the speeds they were promised, and 84% report they would recommend the service to their neighbors.
What made the difference? Access.
DigitalC finally received the permits to knock on doors—nearly 14 months after they were originally promised. This door-to-door engagement was a key element of their outreach strategy, and its absence throughout 2024 significantly hindered subscriber growth. Once granted, the impact was immediate and measurable: DigitalC experienced a 180% increase in subscribers in Q4 2024.
Beyond internet access, DigitalC continues to invest in Cleveland’s digital future. In Q1 2025 alone, its Click program trained 2,458 residents in essential digital skills, including computer basics, coding, and job readiness. These trainings have empowered Clevelanders of all ages. Breonn Davis, a ninth-grader from Ginn Academy, completed the program by coding a digital fried egg—his final project. “I was getting tired of it, but then I told myself, ‘I gotta complete this if I want to pass,’” Davis said. “It was fun. Really fun.”
The organization’s recent progress is not just about numbers—it’s about rebuilding trust. In response to criticism earlier this year, DigitalC intensified its customer service efforts. Their teams returned to homes multiple times to resolve issues and, in some cases, quadrupled user speeds. Communication with residents, partners, and stakeholders has also improved, reflecting a renewed commitment to community engagement and transparency.
Growth at the neighborhood level further underscores this momentum. Ward 3 saw a 69% subscriber increase in Q1 2025, with Wards 7 and 6 showing similar strength. Newly connected neighborhoods in Wards 11, 13, and 16 are already adopting the service, demonstrating that once access is available, residents are eager to connect.
Members of City Council have also begun to acknowledge the momentum. Councilman Kris Harsh, who was among those pressing for results during earlier hearings, praised the visible improvements, stating that what DigitalC has achieved since their last appearance at the Utilities Committee table “is very very encouraging.” Harsh noted that the structure of the contract—designed to incentivize connections in Cleveland’s most disconnected neighborhoods—appears to be working as intended.
Following a positive audit review, Harsh added, “It sounds like we’re getting there,” and affirmed, “We are right where we need to be.” He also shared his enthusiasm for further community engagement and noted that he looks forward to hosting a DigitalC community meeting in Old Brooklyn this July.
For neighborhoods that have historically had fewer options for reliable internet access, this progress is more than just a milestone—it’s a clear example of what can happen when results-driven organizations are empowered to deliver. DigitalC’s expansion, backed by data, transparency, and field-tested strategies like direct outreach, is making measurable strides in closing the digital gap. In this case, success isn’t just about technology—it’s about ensuring every household has a fair opportunity to compete, contribute, and thrive in today’s connected economy.