Equitable Internet Initiative

What is EII?

The Equitable Internet Initiative (EII) is a collaboration between Allied Media Projects (AMP) and the Detroit Community Technology Project (DCTP) to ensure that more Detroit residents have the tools to leverage digital technologies for social and economic development. The work is guided by a set of EII Working Principles.

The goals of this initiative are to:

  • Increase Internet access through the distribution of shared Gigabit Internet connections in three underserved neighborhoods
  • Increase Internet adoption through a Digital Stewards training program that prepares residents of those same neighborhoods with the skills necessary to bring their communities online
  • Increase pathways for youth into the opportunities of Detroit’s burgeoning Innovation District through intermediate and advanced digital literacy trainings

To achieve these goals, DCTP partnered with three anchor organizations in 2016: BLVD Harambee/Church of the Messiah, Grace in Action, and the North End Woodward Community Coalition. These three community anchor organizations each implemented EII programs in their respective neighborhoods. 150 households have been connected, and each network continues to be built up so they can become self-sustainable into the future.

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Resiliency Network

The community wireless networks of the Equitable Internet Initiative (EII) support neighborhoods to be self determined, safe, and resilient, especially in the midst of a natural or political disaster. To maintain the strength of our communities, we are creating neighborhood resiliency plans. Learn more.

EII Programs

The Equitable Internet Initiative consists of two training programs to meet this challenge/opportunity. LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE PROGRAMS HERE.

Digital Stewards (DS) program

The Digital Stewards program trains neighborhood leaders in the technical and community organizing skills necessary to redistribute Gigabit Internet connections and bring their communities online.

Next Gen Apps program

The Next Gen Apps program will train high school and middle school youth in web development skills for the Gigabit environment.

Learn more about the anchor organizations