COVID-19 has highlighted the digital divide across America, especially in rural communities and low-income urban areas. Today, high-speed internet access is critical for virtual learning, job searches, and rural healthcare access. High-speed internet access also directly impacts local economic growth, leading to job creation and increased productivity.
Progressive universities must consider how they can partner with other stakeholders in their communities to increase access to high-speed internet. While universities do not typically provide broadband directly to consumers, they can support economic development by leveraging their existing research and partnerships to expand broadband access in their communities.
The Biden administration plans to invest $400 billion to expand broadband access, especially in underserved rural communities. While federal funding will likely be distributed across the next few years, every state has already begun investing in broadband.
Universities can leverage governmental and corporate funding currently available, collect necessary data, and organize community partnerships now to better prepare their communities for broadband development.
47%
Students in rural areas who lack broadband access20+
States with a dedicated office to broadband expansion82M
Amount states spent on broadband expansion from FCC funding in 2017This resource requires EAB partnership access to view.
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