About
LightBridge Foundation empowers underserved communities by placing offline, AI‑powered knowledge kiosks where the internet cannot yet reach. We combine modern technology with local partnerships to spark healthier, better‑informed, and more prosperous futures.
Who We Are
LightBridge Foundation is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to closing the last‑mile information gap. Where connectivity stops, misinformation and missed opportunity often thrive. We step in with palm‑sized “AI libraries” that run locally—no data plan, tower, or satellite required—so every question can meet a trustworthy answer.
Founded in 2024 by a small team of technologists and field practitioners, we operate at the intersection of affordable computing, language technology, and community‑driven development.
Our Story
While volunteering in rural clinics, Timofei Babenko and Neva Crounse kept seeing the same pattern: electricity was present, yet vital knowledge was not. Inspired by advances in compact Large Language Models that run on low‑power devices, they sketched a solution that could fit in a backpack and cost less than US $100—small enough to ship anywhere, powerful enough to save lives and unlock opportunity.
Leadership Team
| Name | Role | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Timofei Babenko | Director of Operations | Oversees global deployments, supply‑chain logistics, and technical reliability of our AI kiosks. |
| Neva Crounse | On‑Site Investigator | Embeds with local partners, conducts needs assessments, and ensures culturally relevant content and training. |
| Ivan Russell | Accountant | Manages transparent budgeting, donor reporting, and audit‑ready financial stewardship. |
What Drives Us
- Access: Accurate health, education, and agricultural guidance should never depend on a ZIP code or data plan.
- Affordability: A one‑time hardware investment of < $100 can serve thousands of people for years.
- Localization: We prioritise regional languages and include local experts in content validation.
- Accountability: Open‑source software, transparent financials, and measurable impact keep us honest and effective.
Get Involved
Ready to help light a bridge to knowledge?
- Sponsor a kiosk — US $100 equips an entire village.
- Volunteer your expertise — from translation to hardware repair.
- Partner with us — NGOs, schools, clinics, and community leaders are invited to collaborate.
Contact: info@lightbridge.foundation
Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/LightBridgeFdn