The Cook County Digital Equity IMPACT Small Grants Program is a new initiative aimed at advancing digital equity in Suburban Cook County by supporting local nonprofit organizations. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and co-designed with City Bureau, the program focuses on bridging the digital divide by addressing access, digital proficiency, safety, and infrastructure. These grants align with the county’s Digital Equity Action Plan (DEAP), which was developed through extensive community engagement and prioritizes solutions that are Innovative, Measurable, Purposeful, Actionable, Collaborative, and Timely (IMPACT).

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Suburban Cook County (excluding Chicago), as well as newer or smaller nonprofits using a fiscal agent. The program offers two levels of grants: BOOST grants of $7,500 for smaller-scale projects, with five grants available, and EMPOWERMENT grants of $15,000 for larger-scale initiatives, with ten grants to be awarded. The projects should support activities such as providing digital skills training, improving public internet access, or partnering with local media to raise awareness about digital inclusion. Projects are expected to foster collaboration, share best practices, and expand the county's digital equity ecosystem.

The grant performance period is one year, with potential renewal based on available funding, achievement of project goals, and demonstrated impact. Applicants must submit a detailed budget upon receiving an award, ensuring alignment with the grant's goals and transparency in fund utilization.

Applications open on October 11, 2024, and must be submitted by November 15, 2024. An informational webinar will be held on October 17, 2024, to assist potential applicants. Award recipients will be notified by November 29, 2024, with the official announcement of awardees on December 16, 2024. Evaluation criteria will assess alignment with the program’s goals of enhancing digital access, confidence, safety, and infrastructure, with a scoring system based on the applicant's commitment to these objectives.