ABOUT N'SPIRE
An inclusive digital environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.
N'SPiRE is QUILT's workforce initiative that bridges the digital divide by providing residents with tech training, literacy, and industry credentials. Rather than just offering internet access, the program focuses on creating pathways to stable employment and real job opportunities in Chicago's tech sector.
Empowerment
Technology and education as tools, not checkboxes
N'SPiRE treats training as a means to genuine economic mobility, not just program completion. We measure success by where people end up, not what they finished.
Growth
Continuous development, personal and professional
Skills evolve. The tech sector changes fast. N'SPiRE keeps its curriculum current and supports participants beyond the initial certification.
Community
Built through collaboration, not delivered from outside
N'SPiRE works through local organizations, employers, and leaders. The network it builds is part of the program, not just infrastructure behind it.
WHO WE SERVE
Built for multiple entry points.
Affordable devices and internet access are the starting point. N'SPiRE handles both, working with households that have been left behind by market-rate solutions.
Getting people online, with the right tools
Affordable device distribution to qualifying households
Digital literacy training for first-time internet users
Enrollment support for city and federal broadband programs
Certifications and job placement, not just coursework
N'SPiRE's training programs are built around what employers are actively hiring for. Participants leave with credentials, not just classroom hours.
Fiber optic splicing certification
Cybersecurity fundamentals and certification
IT support and network administration tracks
Job placement support through employer partnerships
​A support network that exists after the program ends
N'SPiRE builds partnerships with local organizations, employers, and community leaders so participants have a network to draw on after training, not just during it.
Local organization partnerships for participant referrals
Employer relationships built into the curriculum
Alumni network connecting graduates to opportunities
700+
Households connected to affordable high-speed internet, devices, and digital resources through N'SPiRE.
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And we're just getting started.
TRAINING TRACKS
What you can earn here.
Every track leads to an industry-recognized credential. No prior experience required to enroll in any of them.
Fiber Optic Splicing
Hands-on installation and splicing training for one of the fastest-growing infrastructure jobs in the country.
Cybersecurity
Foundational and intermediate security training, leading to certifications recognized by employers in finance, healthcare, and tech.
IT Support and Networking
Cisco Networking Academy curriculum covering hardware, software, and network administration fundamentals.
Digital Literacy
Entry-level skills for residents new to computers, the internet, and workplace digital tools. The on-ramp to every other track.
Get Program Updates
New training cohorts, events, and research — sent when it's relevant.
Digital access, workforce training, and community connectivity, South Side Chicago since 2014.
GET INVOLVED
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