Cook County Earns National Recognition for Digital Equity Platform Addressing the Digital Divide

COOK COUNTY, IL — Cook County has been named a County Government Experience Project Winner in the Center for Digital Government’s 2026 Government Experience (GovX) Awards. The County was recognized for its digital equity platform, which helps residents understand the digital divide, find resources and take action to improve digital access.

The GovX Awards recognize state and local government agencies that are using technology and innovative approaches to make services more accessible, inclusive and responsive to residents’ needs.

“Technology should make it easier for residents to access information, connect with resources and participate fully in their communities,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “This recognition reflects our commitment to closing the digital divide and ensuring residents have the connectivity, devices and skills they need to navigate an increasingly digital world. We will continue working with our community partners to make digital access more equitable across the region.”

Cook County's digital equity platform brings together information, tools and resources to help residents and community organizations connect and address barriers to digital access. Key features include:

• Digital Equity Survey: Launched in May 2026, the survey gathered resident feedback on internet access and device needs to help inform updates to the County’s Digital Equity Action Plan.
• Digital Equity Map: The interactive map identifies areas with limited or no access to broadband internet, technology infrastructure or digital literacy programs. By mapping these disparities, policymakers and practitioners can focus on bridging the gap between under-resourced and well-connected communities.
• Shared Resources and Partner Directory: The public toolkit provides templates, guides and other materials to help community-based organizations advance digital inclusion. An online directory connects residents with trusted providers and helps organizations coordinate services.

"We are honored to be recognized by the Center for Digital Government for our efforts to improve the digital experience for our residents and close the digital divide," said Cook County Chief Information Officer Tom Lynch. "We will continue to meet residents where they are and find new ways to use technology to make government more accessible, efficient and transparent."

The Digital Equity platform and the Digital Equity Action Plan first launched during Digital Inclusion Week 2023. The public-facing website launched in August 2025, providing a central location for residents and partners to access information and resources.

Additionally, the County’s digital equity efforts are supported by the Digital Equity Action Committee of 30 members, three regional co-chairs and a network of more than 100 community organizations. These partnerships help connect residents to trusted services and ensure the County’s approach reflects community needs.

“Digital equity isn't just about technology or identifying gaps in access. It's also about understanding how digital experiences affect our everyday lives,” said Kyla Williams Tate, Digital Equity Director. “It takes all of us working together to equitably shape solutions that reflect the needs of our communities across Cook County." 

Cook County's success in the GovX Awards demonstrates its dedication to providing residents with the best possible digital experience and ensuring residents have the resources they need to learn, work, access services and participate in the digital economy.