Rural communities face a complex set of challenges when it comes to closing the digital divide, according to three broadband providers who participated in BroadbandUSA’s April webinar. To serve the needs of rural customers, providers must develop innovative business models, partnership strategies, and technological solutions to serve their customers. In the webinar, the three providers discussed how their differing business models have all built strong local relationships and allowed them to meet community needs. 

NTIA has updated its BroadbandUSA website database of 57 federal broadband programs, spanning 14 federal agencies with billions of dollars for broadband grants, loans, and other resources.

Federal agencies have made significant progress across government to improve broadband access for Americans in the year following the launch of the American Broadband Initiative (ABI), said speakers in a recent NTIA BroadbandUSA webinar.

State-level broadband work has dramatically increased over the last three years. States are focusing on the important role broadband plays in economic development. NTIA’s BroadbandUSA February webinar focused on how state governments are working to expand broadband access.

Description:  Cyberinfrastructure differs from traditional web and broadband access in its focus and magnitude.

Description:  Federal data can help state and local leaders and businesses understand what drives broadband adoption and utilization in their communities and target the digital divide. Join BroadbandUSA’s webinar on June 17, 2020 to learn about federal data sources, current trends, and where to access local information to inform your broadband efforts. NTIA will present the findings from their 2019 Internet Use Survey, and the U.S. Census Bureau will highlight the broadband and connectivity data available in their American Community Survey.

Local leaders are deploying smart technologies to address regional challenges, create economic efficiencies, improve sustainability, and enhance residential quality of life. Please join BroadbandUSA on May 20 to learn more about smart region efforts in Arizona, Colorado and the Great Lakes area.  These initiatives focus on economic development, water quality, and the use of artificial intelligence to create stronger and more resilient communities. Speakers will also describe their work in the Global City Teams Challenge (GCTC) Smart Regions Collaborative.

Rural service providers continue to deploy broadband solutions and work to close the digital divide,  developing strong local partnerships and sustainable business models.