EBDI Digital Equity Initiative
Challenge
East Baltimore faces stark disparities in digital access, with nearly 46% of some neighborhoods lacking reliable internet. These gaps disproportionately impacted BIPOC communities, amplifying systemic inequities in education, employment, and healthcare. Affordable connectivity, access to devices, and digital skills training were critical needs voiced by residents.
Approach
Point A Studio partnered with East Baltimore Development, Inc. (EBDI) to design a Digital Equity & Access strategy rooted in community engagement. Our unique methodology included:
Participatory Design: Engaging nearly 200 residents through surveys, workshops, and local partnerships to identify barriers and opportunities.
Co-Creation of Policy & Principles: Collaboratively crafting a comprehensive policy agenda centered on affordability, free public Wi-Fi, and culturally responsive digital skills training.
Systemic Analysis: Leveraging data to address structural disinvestment and digital inequities while designing solutions for long-term impact.
Outcomes
This collaboration resulted in actionable, community-led advancements, including:
Community Insights: 85% of residents highlighted affordability as a key barrier, and demand emerged for free/low-cost devices and tailored training.
Digital Equity Policy Agenda: Strategies were developed to ensure affordable internet, expand public Wi-Fi networks starting with Eager Park, and establish a Digital Innovation Lab for skills-building and connectivity.
Tangible Initiatives: Plans are underway to transform Eager Park into a connectivity hub and create infrastructure that bridges digital gaps while fostering community empowerment.
Reflection
This work reinforced the power of centering community voices to design systemic solutions. A key takeaway is the importance of integrating digital equity with broader social and economic justice efforts to create sustainable change. By prioritizing collaboration and lived experiences, Point A Studio demonstrated how design can dismantle structural barriers and build inclusive futures.
