briefs
The foundation says the BEAD initiative alone is unlikely to close the connectivity gap.
April 26, 2024 — Connect Humanity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting communities and nonprofit organizations to advance digital equity, is partnering with Microsoft to expand broadband to communities in Appalachia, according to a Tuesday press release. announced a contract with.
Connect Humanity's investment in Digital Equity Appalachia Fund aims to address the digital divide through targeted investments. Brian VoConnect Humanity's chief investment officer said the partnership with Microsoft will facilitate this.
“With the right partners, it is possible to build best-in-class internet to every rural and low-income area in Appalachia. Public investment is necessary but insufficient. Strong economics of community-based broadband. That's what we have at Microsoft, and that's what we need to do with Microsoft, while prioritizing community needs and understanding the root causes of digital inequality. That's why we're excited about this partnership.”
Connect Humanity said it hopes the fund will provide low-cost financing to community-based internet providers, filling a gap not currently served by many financial institutions. In addition to Microsoft, the program will work with community development financial institutions, banks, impact investors and foundations, according to a statement.
vicky robinsonThe General Manager of Microsoft's Global Airband Initiative emphasized the need for robust broadband access in rural areas. She touted the Microsoft and Connect Humanity initiative as a way to bridge the digital divide.
“Access to reliable broadband is a prerequisite for rural communities to reach their full potential in areas such as education, employment and health care,” Robinson said. “Digital opportunities should never be out of reach for communities across Appalachia.”
Connect Humanity and Microsoft say broadband equity access deployment efforts are unlikely to completely close the broadband gap between advantaged and disadvantaged communities.
The partnership is intended to serve as a complement to BEAD, covering areas ignored by the $42 billion federal initiative, the statement said.
