Equinix has committed an additional $50 million to the Equinix Foundation, doubling the company’s total investment in the foundation since it was established in 2022.
The funding will support programmes focused on expanding internet access, digital literacy and workforce development through grants, partnerships and community initiatives.
Since its launch, the Equinix Foundation has awarded grants to 100 nonprofit organisations across 48 metropolitan areas globally. In 2025, organisations supported through the foundation’s programmes connected more than 3.5 million people to the internet, while more than 1.6 million people received digital literacy and skills training. More than 900 people were trained for roles in digital infrastructure during the year.
“For nearly 30 years, Equinix has grown by earning the trust of the communities where we operate. The Equinix Foundation is a powerful expression of our values in action, giving more people the skills and opportunities they need for the jobs of the future,” said Adaire Fox-Martin, CEO and President, Equinix, and Foundation Board Member. “By doubling our investment in programs around the world, we aim to open doors for more people and ensure our communities benefit from the future we are helping to build.”
The foundation has also appointed Aslıhan Güreşcier, VP, Growth and Emerging Markets, EMEA, as its new president. She will oversee the foundation’s next phase of programmes across digital access, skills development and workforce readiness.
Its work is organised around three areas: expanding internet access for underserved communities, developing digital literacy and skills, and creating technical career pathways linked to the data-centre industry.
The foundation works with companies including Cisco and HPE on initiatives in these areas, while also supporting infrastructure and climate-related programmes.
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen the ways digital technology and infrastructure can lift up communities and improve people’s lives,” Güreşcier said. “I’m honored to lead the Equinix Foundation as we scale this vitally important work and help communities capitalise on the immense opportunities ahead.”
The foundation is also expanding its focus on workforce development. Its Pathways to Tech programme introduces students aged 14 to 18 to data-centre careers through school visits, facility tours and education programmes. According to Equinix, the initiative has reached more than 1,300 students across 24 locations since its launch.
Equinix has entered into a new partnership with the International Youth Foundation (IYF) to develop a model for expanding the programme into additional markets.
“Every young person deserves the chance to see a future for themselves in the industries shaping our world, and data infrastructure is one of the fastest-growing out there,” said Christina Sass, President & CEO, International Youth Foundation. “Pathways to Tech is already opening that door for hundreds of students. We’re excited to bring our experience in youth workforce development to help Equinix build a model that can open it for thousands more, in communities around the world.”
Other organisations supported by the foundation include Per Scholas, unconnected.org, UNICEF Digital Inclusion’s Giga programme, India’s YUVA Unstoppable and the Enterprise Development Centre at Pan-Atlantic University in Nigeria.