An Inclusive and Effective Approach to ‘Community-Based’ Broadband

To truly unleash the power of localized broadband deployment, we should ensure all community-based providers have a seat at the table. Corporate structure does not dictate the strength of commitment to closing the digital divide. While cooperatives and other entities may be a logical part of the conversation about connecting everyone in our country and building an economy that gives everybody a chance to succeed, we believe discussions also must include other kinds of small businesses based in the communities they serve. In short, we believe any community-based provider with a proven track record of performance should be eligible for funding regardless of corporate form. Corporate structure should not matter if your heart and soul has been devoted to bringing essential connectivity to the hardest to reach and serve in America. Leveraging these small businesses will further ensure that our country’s investment in broadband will rapidly result in broadband for all. We look forward to continuing our work with the White House and policymakers to ensure that providers of all kinds who are committed to their communities can work to realize and sustain a shared vision of broadband access for all.

[Shirley Bloomfield is chief executive officer of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, which represents nearly 850 independent, community-based telecommunications companies across rural America. Claude Aiken is president and chief executive officer of WISPA, which represents nearly 1000 independent, community-based broadband providers across rural America.]