Our Work

Increasing Internet Access

Mobile Citizen

One of Voqal’s key projects is Mobile Citizen. Mobile Citizen aims to bridge the digital divide by offering free and low-cost internet to educational institutions, nonprofits and social welfare agencies. For example, programs like:

  • Ashbury Senior Community Computer Center, which works to bridge the digital divide in Cleveland’s inner-city communities by addressing the technology needs of mature and older adults with limited income via technology literacy training and access to technology.
  • PCs for People in St. Paul, MN that provides low-cost computers, computer repair, internet and support to families with an average income of $12,000 per year.

Mobile Citizen’s internet service is available nationwide. Mobile Citizen was created via a unique, 30-year partnership with CLEAR — now a part of T-Mobile.

For more information visit mobilecitizen.org.

Independent Spectrum

We created Independent Spectrum as an ally for EBS spectrum holders, representing their interest by facilitating opportunities to maximize the potential of their licenses.

Through arrangements with commercial wireless carrier, T-Mobile, Independent Spectrum passes through to other EBS licensees significant financial and educational benefits, including working directly with schools to license-free broadband Internet access. From small, rural communities like Alto, TX to larger, commercially-built markets like Minneapolis, MN, Independent Spectrum assists licensees of all sizes and technological sophistication to maximize benefits from their EBS spectrum.

Case Studies

Bridging Opportunity Gaps with STEM Programming and Mobile Hotspots in New York’s Westchester County

The STEM Alliance serves as a resource hub for STEM enrichment opportunities and digital equity initiatives throughout New York’s Westchester County. Through their efforts to bridge the digital divide, the nonprofit has reached over 1,000 individuals with digital training and mobile hotspot Internet since 2020. Through partnering with Mobile Citizen, they can bring Internet to more community members.

Even Post-Pandemic, Moraine Valley Community College Sees Promise in Wi-Fi Hotspot Lending

In 2020, students attending Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, Illinois found themselves in the same situation as a lot of learners during the COVID-19 pandemic: scrambling for ways to connect to video lectures and online materials when classes switched from in-person to remote. By partnering with Mobile Citizen, MVCC was able to help students stay connected.

Providing a New Chance at Life for Domestic Abuse Survivors

Sanctuary for Families helps clients live a full life away from abusive relationships. At least 85% of the people they serve are single women with children looking for a new start. Through the nonprofit’s economic empowerment program, clients receive education and training to earn certificates in Microsoft Office Suite. They also receive career support through internships and interview practice. Mobile Citizen helps fulfil their mission by providing affordable mobile Internet access.