Ensuring everyone has access to affordable, reliable internet is key to unlocking educational, economic, and civic potential. The Michelson 20MM Foundation is committed to closing the digital divide, especially for underserved and historically marginalized communities. Through the 2025 Digital Equity Spark Grants cycle, we are proud to invest in innovative, systems-level strategies that have the power to create meaningful change at scale.

The 2025 Digital Equity Spark Grants support projects that advance policy advocacy, promote broadband as a civil right, and address digital equity as a social determinant of health. They help shape a future where all Californians can fully participate in society, democracy, and the economy.

Welcoming the 2025 Digital Equity Spark Grantees

BRITE

BRITE will bring DISCONNECTED, a feature documentary on the digital divide, to a broad public audience. The film tells the human stories behind digital discrimination and highlights the advocates working for change. By using empathy and storytelling, the filmmakers aim to turn policy into something personal and urgent. Through screenings, panels, and community engagement, DISCONNECTED will help spark national conversations around digital equity and inspire viewers to get involved.

The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA)

Building on their 2024 pilot internet service provider (ISP) project in Pico-Union, CHIRLA is launching a community-driven effort to close the digital divide. This project centers the voices of immigrant families by reaching over 2,000 residents to understand their internet access needs. CHIRLA staff and ambassadors will hold conversations at member retreats and through outreach that respects language and cultural context. Insights from these efforts will shape a pilot low-cost internet service designed with the community, for the community. The project also includes digital literacy education and free devices to ensure families can fully participate online.

UNITE-LA

UNITE-LA will advance community broadband pilots in Pacoima and the Antelope Valley. Their efforts target two of the most persistent barriers to digital equity: affordability and access. In partnership with local coalitions, UNITE-LA will support the launch of public broadband models rooted in community leadership and resident input. In the Antelope Valley, a new public broadband authority will begin implementing a shared network plan. In Pacoima, a task force will pilot strategies to reduce internet costs and improve service quality. This work models how place-based solutions can challenge digital redlining and shift broadband planning toward equity, transparency, and local control.

The Youth Law Center (YLC)

The YLC will help close digital equity gaps for foster and justice-involved youth. These young people face systemic barriers to internet and mobile access that stem from both restrictive institutional settings and the instability and disruptions caused by foster care experiences—barriers that can limit educational achievement, economic opportunity, and long-term well-being. YLC will assess all 58 California probation agencies for compliance with digital access laws, ensuring youth can pursue education and stay connected. The project combines legal strategy, public records research, and youth leadership to push enforcement where policy alone falls short. YLC will also advocate to expand Lifeline access, removing documentation and eligibility barriers for foster youth. This work redefines digital equity as a civil rights issue, grounded in justice and accountability.

Looking Ahead

We are inspired by the grantees’ visionary work and dedication to advancing digital equity across California. Their projects exemplify the innovative, community-centered approaches necessary to overcome systemic barriers and ensure everyone has meaningful access to the internet. As these initiatives take shape, we look forward to seeing the lasting impact they will have on public policy, community empowerment, and closing the digital divide for good.

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About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.