Bogotá, Colombia is expanding access to free internet for its most vulnerable residents through the ‘Conexión Social’ program, aiming to connect 100,000 households by the end of 2026. The initiative, launched by the Alcaldía de Bogotá, seeks to bridge the digital divide and provide opportunities for education, employment and communication to families classified within the city’s Sisbén system.
The program’s expansion, announced on March 16, 2026, builds upon existing efforts to provide digital inclusion. The city recognizes that reliable internet access is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for full participation in modern society. ‘Conexión Social: Bogotá me conecta’ is designed to deliver on that promise, offering a lifeline to those who have historically been excluded from the digital world.
Addressing the Digital Divide in Bogotá
The digital divide remains a significant challenge in Bogotá, with a substantial portion of the population lacking consistent access to the internet. According to recent data, one in three households in Bogotá lacks a stable internet connection, limiting access to essential services and opportunities. The ‘Conexión Social’ program directly addresses this disparity by prioritizing households in strata 1 and 2, and those registered in the Sisbén system.
The Sisbén system is a crucial component of the program’s targeting. It’s a national socio-economic stratification system used in Colombia to identify and categorize households based on their living conditions and income levels. Families classified within specific Sisbén categories (A1 to C9) are eligible to apply for the free internet service. This targeted approach ensures that the benefits reach those who require them most.
Program Details and Eligibility Requirements
The ‘Conexión Social’ program aims to connect up to 100,000 homes in Bogotá with free internet access. The city has already made significant progress, with over 30,000 families benefiting from the service as of early 2026, delivered through a partnership with ETB, the Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Bogotá. The Alcaldía de Bogotá is investing $234,000 million (Colombian pesos) to reach 70,000 connected homes before the end of 2026, with a final goal of 100,000 by 2027.
To qualify for the free internet service, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include being classified in strata 1 or 2, and being registered in the Sisbén system between A1 and C9. The program is designed to be accessible, but applicants will need to fulfill these requirements to be considered. Further details on the application process and specific requirements can be found on the official Bogotá city government website. The official website provides comprehensive information for potential beneficiaries.
Impact Beyond Connectivity
The ‘Conexión Social’ program is not simply about providing internet access; it’s about unlocking opportunities and improving lives. The initiative aims to empower residents with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world. The program’s impact extends beyond basic connectivity, fostering access to education, employment, and essential services.
Stories emerging from the program highlight its transformative potential. Families are now able to support their children’s education remotely, adults are accessing online training and job opportunities, and seniors are connecting with loved ones and exploring new hobbies. The program is fostering a sense of inclusion and empowerment within Bogotá’s most vulnerable communities.
Geographic Focus and Implementation
The initial rollout of ‘Conexión Social’ is focused on six key localities within Bogotá: Ciudad Bolívar, San Cristóbal, Rafael Uribe Uribe, Suba, Bosa, and Kennedy. These areas have been identified as having the greatest need for improved internet access and digital inclusion. The strategic focus on these localities ensures that the program’s benefits are concentrated where they are most needed.
The implementation of the program involves a collaborative effort between the Alcaldía de Bogotá and ETB. ETB is responsible for providing the technical infrastructure and ensuring the reliable delivery of internet service to participating households. The partnership leverages ETB’s expertise in telecommunications to deliver a high-quality service to beneficiaries.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Sustainability
The ‘Conexión Social’ program represents a significant investment in Bogotá’s future. The city government is committed to expanding the program’s reach and ensuring its long-term sustainability. Future plans include exploring innovative financing models and partnerships to maintain and enhance the service.
The success of the program hinges on continued collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as ongoing engagement with the communities it serves. By working together, Bogotá can create a more inclusive and equitable digital landscape for all its residents.
The next key milestone for the ‘Conexión Social’ program is reaching the target of 70,000 connected homes by the end of 2026. Updates on the program’s progress and future initiatives will be available on the official Bogotá city government website. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences with digital inclusion in the comments below.