As the federal government is distributing tens of billions of dollars to fund state broadband grant programs, local governments and nonprofits have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to solve the broadband challenges in their communities. Community broadband planning and coordinating digital inclusion ecosystems is complicated work. However, many are not prepared or are unsure what steps they should take. Cities and counties are struggling to find the best tools and methodologies needed to foster digital equity. The Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) has prepared a program to help local leaders and digital equity advocates orient themselves and develop the programs needed to solve this problem. 

The Community Broadband Networks Initiative gives local governments, elected officials, nonprofits, and foundations looking to bridge the digital divide in their communities a comprehensive introduction to all of the things they need to understand local needs, evaluate options, and chart an achievable path to their goals. From leveraging existing assets, financing, partnerships to evaluating available models for success, this program demystifies every step of the process, offering individualized advice and assistance along the way while building a cohort of communities that can lean on each other for support as well.

If you’re curious about the Let’s Get Going Broadband Program or have a question, complete this form below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.