The Franklin County Digital Equity Coalition (DEC), is a dedicated group of over 30 Franklin County and regional organization, representing government, education, healthcare, social service, private sectors and institutions. The Coalition initially formed in response to the pandemic in March 2020.

Founded by the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Council (MORPC), Columbus Metropolitan Library, and The Columbus Foundation, a number of Franklin County organizations began participating in informal, virtual meetings to more closely examine the status of broadband challenges for area residents. Over time, this organic gathering has grown to include additional business, government, education, nonprofit and social sector representatives. the DEC has been a model for civic coorporation and collaboration. The DEC is now coordinated by Smart Columbus and continues to meet several times each month. The momentum for this collective effort continues to increase.