In 1992, Benton launches the Communications Policy Program with funding from MacArthur Foundation, the first major grant the organization receives. In 1994, Benton organizes the Public Interest Summit, a convening of 700 non-profit leaders seeking to shape the emerging internet. Benton goes on to publish a series of reports on how the internet impacts education, healthcare, libraries, and, most importantly, the lives of the people who do not have access to this new communications tool, drawing attention to the emerging digital divide. After passage of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, Benton launches a free, daily email newsletter to help educate people on how the new Act is being implemented and on other developments in telecommunications.
