US Ignite

Regional innovation competitiveness relies not only on research, but on the effective deployment of technologies, proving that ideas can work beyond the lab. But in order to deploy technologies and scale economic growth, coalitions must tell a compelling story to funders about why investment in their communities is worthwhile. In this research paper, US Ignite, through the Supporting U.S.

Over the past 15 years, federal investments in regional innovation have catalyzed new coalitions and economic strategies nationwide. However, most regions did not receive funding or ongoing support. US Ignite created SURGE to help coalitions maintain momentum and find a clear path forward. The SURGE program, accessible at surge.us-ignite.org, is open to both existing coalitions and individuals interested in forging new cross-sector partnerships.

US Ignite proudly announced a $3.9 million investment from the U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships to establish Supporting U.S. Regional Growth & Entrepreneurship. This new national initiative is designed to help regional coalitions amplify ongoing innovation efforts for sustainable economic growth through actionable tools, trusted expert guidance, and a powerful national peer network. Through SURGE, US Ignite and its network of partners will:

A US Ignite Community recently reached two momentous milestones. Cleveland (OH) became the first major US city to deploy a full next-gen fixed wireless network through a local nonprofit, DigitalC. In just 18 months, DigitalC created and deployed the Cleveland Model—a customized network explicitly designed for Cleveland. Although tailored for Cleveland’s unique landscape, the engineers designed the model so that it could be a blueprint for other cities working to expand Internet connectivity.

Following the US Ignite delivery and presentation of the Harris County Broadband Roadmap: A Platform for Shared Investment and Public Engagement, the Harris County (TX) Commissioners Court voted unanimously to establish a Harris County Broadband Task Force. Responsible for guiding strategy, coordinating public-private partnerships, and tracking progress, the task force will comprise members appointed by the Court and representing County offices, community organizations, academia, and the private sector.

Harris County (TX) approaches a pivotal moment in addressing broadband access and digital opportunity. Since the County’s last major broadband roadmap in 2020, the context for Internet access has evolved dramatically. The post-pandemic era brought sweeping changes in how residents work, learn, and access essential services.

US Ignite, in partnership with Signify, is excited to announce the launch of a pilot opportunity for communities across the United States to deploy and evaluate the transformative BrightSites technology.

US Ignite is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Harris County (TX), the third-largest county in the United States. US Ignite will develop a comprehensive broadband plan for the county. The initiative ensures that Harris County’s Broadband Plan aligns with changes in technology, policies, and the county’s vision for connectivity. As part of this initiative, US Ignite will comprehensively evaluate Harris County’s existing broadband plan, ensuring it aligns with the field’s best practices and recent advancements in broadband strategy.