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

In a significant effort to bridge the digital divide, the Cook County (IL) Office of the President announced 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.