EDISON Alliance Impact Report 2024
Page 17 of 32 · WEF_EDISON_Alliance_Impact_Report_2024.pdf
Nations will only achieve their full potential
by equipping their citizens with the
infrastructure, capital and knowledge to build
resilient and innovative communities. Digital
technologies increase efficiency and improve
outcomes across many aspects of our lives,
including business, the economy, healthcare
and education. Those who have reliable
access to affordable broadband and have
been trained to use technology and software
will be best positioned to benefit from
digitization. That is why it’s critical that we
focus on empowering underserved, minority
communities as we work to digitally engage
one billion people by 2025.
Minority communities are often denied
the necessary resources to build thriving
neighbourhoods and businesses in the
United States and around the world. For
example, 50% of Black Americans live
near 70 Historically Black Colleges and
Universities. Yet, 82% of these institutions
reside in broadband deserts, limiting the
economic, entrepreneurial and social growth
of these regions and graduates. Only 2% of
private businesses are Black owned, which
contributes to a $220 billion annual wage
disparity. Unlocking access to additional
resources will accelerate growth in these
communities and drive economic prosperity
for all. To drive lasting change, we must ensure
that these communities and educational
institutions have greater access to wealth
and knowledge-building tools, particularly
digital connectivity. If we get this right, we
can ensure that the next generation can
achieve their limitless potential.
Robert F. Smith
Founder, Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer,
Vista Equity PartnersUsability 4.2
Objective
To increase digital skills, digital
literacy trainings and access
to content in local languages.
101,965,163*
lives improvedProgress
* pie chart represents a total of 1 billion lives
EDISON Alliance Impact Report January 2024
17
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