Introducing the 2025 Digital Inclusion Trailblazers

Baltimore’s recognition as a Visionary Trailblazer is a testament to our city’s leadership in tackling the digital divide head-on. Across Baltimore, we’re building bridges to opportunity by expanding broadband access and fostering digital literacy. The Digital Inclusion Trailblazers program reminds us that true progress comes from collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to equity—values that define Baltimore and guide our efforts every day

The City of Quincy is grateful to Mayor Thomas P. Koch, who continues to provide the leadership, by advancing technology, education, equipment & apprenticeship opportunities, to bridge the digital divide. In 2022, he created the Community Technology Integration, and Support (CTIS) department , to support and increase resident outcomes, working with the tools of technology.  Residents and businesses will also benefit with cybersecurity & AI awareness, and assessment programs. We appreciate the NDIA alliance continuing to advance digital equity by supporting our community.

Being named an NDIA Trailblazer affirms the kind of work happening every day in Western North Carolina—work led by communities that are often overlooked, but deeply innovative. It’s a reminder that when you center people, partnerships, and persistence, you can turn connectivity into opportunities.

Providing digital resources and education in Millcreek has been a crucial step in realizing our goal of committing to wellness and opportunity for all

We are deeply honored to once again be recognized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) as a Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer. Achieving this distinction for the third consecutive year affirms Cook County’s long-term commitment to embedding digital equity across government and into the everyday lives of our residents. We are grateful to NDIA for setting a national standard that challenges communities to lead with intention, accountability, and innovation.

Digital access is no longer optional—it is essential to quality of life, economic opportunity, and civic participation. Being named a Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer reflects Vacaville’s commitment to ensuring every resident, regardless of circumstance, has the tools and access needed to thrive in a digital-first world. We are proud to be leading by example and building a more connected, inclusive community.

The County of Chenango is proud to be recognized as a 2025 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer. In today’s increasingly online world, ensuring that everyone can participate digitally is essential for education, social connection, and carrying out everyday tasks. The more we do to expand access to digital tools, skills, and connectivity, the stronger and more inclusive our community becomes.

Nearly a decade in the making, this eighth consecutive year as a 2025 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer reflects Mayor Bowser’s and DC Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring all residents have equitable access to digital tools and connectivity. Digital inclusion is about opportunity, empowerment, and resilience. This honor belongs to our dedicated public servants, community partners, and residents who continue working to bridge the digital divide in our nation’s capital.

I’m grateful that Calhoun County’s digital inclusion work has given local agencies a forum for collaboration, and we will continue to expand digital support services throughout our communities.

Seattle’s legacy of innovation is rooted in simple commitments: expanding opportunity and access and enabling every resident to fully participate in a connected community. For years, the City and our partners have led on digital equity by advancing smart policies, affordability programs, and grants that have delivered impacts in people’s lives. We thank NDIA for shining a light on those efforts by great teams.

We are honored to be recognized as a Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer. The tangible steps outlined in the Trailblazer program guide our efforts toward achieving digital inclusion for our community members. Pima County works to lay the foundation for long-term digital equity so people have opportunities today, in the next ten years, and for the next generation

The City of Hopkins, MN is honored to be recognized as a Trailblazer by NDIA. Through the Hopkins Digital Access Initiative, we’re working together toward a shared vision of a thriving community where all residents can confidently and safely engage in the digital world. This recognition reflects what makes Hopkins special, our collaborative culture and strong community spirit.

Kansas City is honored to be recognized as a Visionary Trailblazer. Through our initiatives and community partnerships, the Neighborhood Services Digital Equity Office is committed to ensuring that every Kansas City resident has access to high-speed internet, essential digital skills, and the necessary technology to thrive. Our mission is clear: to close the digital divide and lead the Midwest in creating an inclusive, connected future.

“I started my career with the City of Charlotte working on Digital Inclusion through the Access Charlotte initiative, building partnerships to help residents gain internet access and confidently navigate technology. I am inspired by hearing stories of people who have transformed their lives, from facing uncertainty to having access to the internet, allowing them to work from home. I find motivation in students who succeed in passing their classes, as well as individuals who learn new skills from a learn-to-earn model that helps a resident secure a job or start their own business. Having the City of Charlotte recognized as a Digital Trailblazer by NDIA is rewarding, and as one of the fastest-growing cities, we know collaboration is key to closing the digital divide. Our leadership and community partners are committed to improving quality of life for all residents – to us, that’s what success means.”

The City of Racine’s vision is to be a community where every member can actively participate and thrive in our digital society and the lives of all residents of Racine will be improved through equitable access to the internet, devices, and digital skills training. We are proud to be recognized as a Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer and are expanding our digital access effort into Southeast Wisconsin with even more partners.

Fairfield is proud to be recognized as a Digital Inclusion Trailblazer. This honor reflects our commitment to ensuring every resident has access to the tools, resources, and information needed to thrive in a connected world. Together, we’re building a more inclusive, informed, and empowered community.

Closing the digital divide is truly a grassroots effort, that requires true organic advocacy, creativity, patience and support for the community. It is an honor to work so closely with our community members and stakeholders, witness the results of our work, and be recognized as a Visionary Trailblazer.

Advancing digital access means meeting our community where they are and providing the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital world. Through continued advocacy and partnerships, we emphasize the importance of this work and ensure residents stay connected, empowered, and prepared to succeed in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

We are so proud of our team! The City’s work related to digital inclusion is extremely important. Our goal is to ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet, devices, and the digital skills needed to fully participate in digital society and take advantage of its many benefits and opportunities.

Lake County is honored to be designated as a Visionary Trailblazer by the NDIA for a second year. Our vision is for a connected, thriving, and inclusive Lake County where the internet is accessible and affordable and where all residents are equipped with the resources needed to participate in an increasingly digital society. Through the hard work and effort of our residents, staff and partners, the Lake County Digital Growth Initiative allows us to move forward and see our vision implemented in our communities. We are proud to share our work and results with NDIA to help other communities bridge the digital divide.

As the most populous County government in the nation, the Digital Inclusion Trailblazers Program provides us with tangible best practices and indicators that help shape our equitable and inclusive digital equity activities countywide in collaboration with our multi-sector partners and stakeholders.