The Mobile Hive - A technology hub on wheels funded by Cox, launches in SAZ

The Institute of Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation to support the nonprofit’s Mobile Hive, a state-of-the-art technology hub on wheels. The Foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises, the parent company of Cox Communications, and is named after the company’s founder. Cox Communications has provided residential and commercial services to Southern Arizona since 1995.

IDIA is a nonprofit dedicated to connecting communities and offering digital opportunities. The Mobile Hive is designed to meet the needs of Southern Arizona residents, offering educational programs, digital literacy, workforce opportunities, and access to telehealth services in an environmentally conscious manner.  Serving as a pop-up classroom and digital support center,  the  Mobile Hive includes a workspace, internet access, computers, tablets, 3-D printers, robotics, virtual reality, telehealth equipment, and IDIA’s Digital Navigators on hand to assist with digital training and support. 

“Cox and IDIA share a common goal of improving the quality of life in the communities we serve,” said Southern Arizona Market Vice President Stephanie Healy. “The Mobile Hive will help to bridge the digital divide to residents across rural Arizona, and beyond, because of its ability to deploy to remote areas of the state.  We’re grateful for this gift from the James M. Cox Foundation as it will help expand their reach,” said Healy.

Beyond providing the latest digital technology, the Mobile Hive also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The vehicle is electric and solar-powered, making it a model for environmentally conscious technology as well as a bridge to connectivity. It also reduces individual commutes and lowers the overall environmental footprint by bringing resources directly to the community.

“We are incredibly grateful to the James M. Cox Foundation for their partnership and investment in IDIA,” said Erin Carr-Jordan, Ph.D., President & CEO of the Institute. “This grant helps us bring digital tools, support, and opportunities directly to people, where they live, learn, and work. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a welcoming space that sparks curiosity, inspires new possibilities, and connects communities to state-of-the-art tech and to future-ready skills.”