A model for cities nationwide, this documentary showcases Cleveland’s efforts to bridge the digital divide through technology, community, and storytelling.
Driven to Connect, a new documentary produced by DigitalC with support from Microsoft Airband, chronicles the first year of a four-year plan to provide affordable, high-speed home internet and digital skills training to thousands of Cleveland residents. This initiative aims to connect 23,500 households to 100/100 Mbps internet for $18/month and provide digital skills training to 50,000 residents by the end of 2027.
As one of the least connected cities in the nation, Cleveland is leveraging historic investments and public-private-philanthropic partnerships to expand access, demonstrating a scalable model for other cities working to close the digital divide.
"DigitalC’s work in Cleveland sets an example of how broadband solutions, combined with community storytelling, can drive lasting impact and serve as a model for other cities tackling this issue," said Shunda Leecost, Microsoft Airband Initiative Partnership Manager at Microsoft. "We have been a proud partner of DigitalC since 2021, supporting its growth from primarily offering digital skills training to now delivering high-speed home internet."
The documentary, produced by Perspective Filmworks LLC, highlights the impact of broadband access on Cleveland residents—from enabling telehealth and education to creating new economic opportunities.
"This approach to building community through connectivity is centered on residents. When they feel joy at a connection, rally behind their community-based internet service provider, and pray for our network to succeed—that is purpose fulfilled. That is why we are making history in delivering on our promise to connect Cleveland," said Joshua Edmonds, Chief Executive Officer at DigitalC.
The initiative continues to accelerate at the intersection of technology, community, and commitment.
The Driven to Connect documentary premiered on February 27 at CMSD Arnold Pinkney East Professional Center, in collaboration with Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). The event brought together local elected officials, internet subscribers, vendors, board members, and community leaders, sparking conversations about Cleveland’s digital future.
"It shows what's possible when multiple sectors align with nonprofits to solve a real problem. Cleveland is proving that when you combine a people-first mindset with a commitment to cutting-edge technology solutions, you can change the future path for our scholars," said Curtis Timmons, Chief Information Officer at CMSD and Board Member at DigitalC.
As part of the event, DigitalC and CMSD set up Digital Gradebook Activation Stations, encouraging parents to activate accounts to track student progress. During the Q&A session, attendees engaged in discussions on DigitalC’s plans, network expansion, and ways to support the initiative.
"Storytelling gives power to the people—amplifying their struggles, their victories, their voices. In Cleveland, we’re proving what’s possible and telling the story of how it’s done," said Wesley Wood, Film Director and Founder at Perspective Filmworks LLC.
The event was made possible through support from sponsors, including CTI Connect, Tarana Wireless, Inc., WAV, LLC., Crown Castle, Winncom Technologies and Elite Cutover Connections.