PHILADELPHIA, PA — Comcast has opened its newest Flagship Lift Zone in partnership with Opportunities Industrialization Center, Inc. (OIC) Philadelphia, expanding access to digital technology and workforce training in the city. Located at 1231 North Broad Street, the new facility represents more than $1 million in investment for technology upgrades, new equipment, and expanded capacity to provide digital and technical skills training.
“Lift Zones are about creating pathways to opportunity and providing support for people within their communities,” said Bret Perkins, senior vice president of external and government affairs at Comcast. “This Flagship Lift Zone at OIC Philadelphia represents our deep commitment to partnering with local organizations that are driving real change.”
The project builds on Comcast’s Lift Zone program, launched in 2020 to provide free WiFi and digital resources in community centers nationwide. The program now includes more than 1,250 locations across the United States, including more than 50 in Philadelphia.
At OIC Philadelphia, the Flagship Lift Zone will focus on training residents for jobs in hospitality, tourism, green industries, audio engineering, and healthcare. A partnership with Per Scholas will also bring tuition-free technical career training to the site, helping participants prepare for high-demand tech roles.
“In today’s labor market, it’s nearly impossible to connect individuals with family-sustaining wages without first connecting them to digital solutions,” said Sheila Ireland, president and CEO of OIC Philadelphia. “Our partnership with Comcast is a powerful example of what’s possible when mission-driven organizations come together to invest in people and communities.”
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker called the initiative a key step toward closing the city’s digital divide. “Comcast’s newest Flagship Lift Zone represents the kind of forward-thinking partnership needed to build our workforce so that Philadelphians are ready to seize family-sustaining careers,” Parker said.
The newly renovated facility includes free 6GHz WiFi, more than 50 new laptops and desktop computers, improved accessibility, and redesigned classrooms equipped for hybrid learning and skills testing.
“OIC Philadelphia is a long-time partner and a leader in preparing people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in our ever-evolving workforce,” said Dan Bonelli, regional senior vice president at Comcast. “Our investment will ensure that more individuals have access to the technology, training, and support they need to pursue meaningful careers and build brighter futures.”
The Philadelphia site is one of five Flagship Lift Zones opening this fall, alongside locations in Chicago, Washington, D.C., St. Paul, and the Seattle area. Backed by a $50 million national investment, the initiative is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion program to advance digital opportunity and create pathways to economic growth.
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