An Open Letter from Stephen Bass, Director of Broadband Services
Broadband funding, unless it is a constant focus of yours, can be easily misunderstood. Broadband is full of acronyms and definitions that don’t fit everyday conversation. Currently, the major initiative behind funding is broadband deployment – ensuring every location in the U.S. has access to adequate broadband. At its core, the message is simple: if you don’t already have reliable broadband, you should.
The complexity, however, arises from the multi-layered involvement of federal and state agencies, with each state setting its own rules, timelines, and eligibility criteria. While GrantWorks’ broadband team is engaged with deployment projects in several states, our vision is broader, focused on what’s next for the communities we serve.
However, a common misconception – much like the famous line from the movie Field of Dreams – “If you build it, he will come.” In the context of broadband, building infrastructure does not guarantee everyone gets connected.
So, what comes next? GrantWorks’ broadband team is now prioritizing two critical areas beyond deployment: cybersecurity and digital equity.
Cybersecurity
As more of our world goes digital, the communities we serve are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. With sensitive data at risk, quick and effective responses to security incidents are not just necessary but essential for maintaining public trust. A study by Benton Institute for Broadband & Society found that 48% of rural residents distrust digital platforms. Community members lacking digital literacy often distrust technology and are vulnerable to cybercrimes due to their inability to protect themselves online. It is crucial for community leaders to understand the importance of a proactive cybersecurity strategy to safeguard assets and sensitive information in an era of rising cyber-attacks.
Digital Equity (Adoption and Literacy)
Digital adoption is key to accessing communication, information, and economic opportunity, empowering individuals to fully participate in the digital age. However, barriers to adoption, such as digital literacy, digital skills, language obstacles, affordability, or online data security concerns, often hinder residents from digital inclusion. While broadband providers offer access, they seldom engage in efforts to boost digital adoption. Here, community leaders play an active role in securing funding and addressing the unique adoption barriers in their areas. Their decisive actions can elevate the local economy, improve the quality of life for residents, and bring exciting new opportunities to the community.
What’s Next for Broadband?
These focus areas – cybersecurity and digital equity – are set to become center stage in the future of broadband funding as more people gain access and new challenges emerge. The initial perceived need is already surpassed by the actual demand, as seen with the recent Digital Equity Act Competitive Grant through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), where $1 billion was allocated for digital equity programs but applications totaled $6.5 billion. This gap highlights the growing need for funding, which will continue to flow toward the communities GrantWorks has long supported.
These opportunities align with GrantWorks’ community-focused goals as we push to connect our communities and prepare them for the future. GrantWorks is dedicated to making impactful contributions to the communities we serve, driven by a commitment to supporting, uplifting, and empowering the places we work, live, and play.
For more information on broadband technology, broadband funding opportunities, or the range of broadband services GrantWorks offers, contact us:
Stephen Bass
Director of Broadband Services
478-955-3742
[email protected]