FCC Announces Major Expansion of Connect to Compete

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski applauded executives and nonprofit leaders from leading Internet service providers, technology companies and nonprofits for their unprecedented multi-billion dollar in-kind commitments to empower millions of families with broadband Internet, PCs, and digital literacy training, with zero cost to tax payers.

Participating National Cable & Telecommunications Association member cable companies will offer all eligible families two-years of $9.95 + tax broadband cable Internet, with a no installation/activation fee option and no modem rental fees (with an option to purchase a $10 modem).

• Eligible families must (1) have at least one student enrolled in the Free School Lunch Program; (2) not be a current subscriber to broadband (or have subscribed in the last 90 days); and (3) not have an overdue bill or unreturned equipment to the participating service provider.
• Participating companies include: Bend Cable, Bright House Networks, Cablevision, Charter, Comcast (via Internet Essentials), Cox Communications, Eagle Communications, GCI, Insight, Mediacom, Midcontinent, Sjoberg’s Cable, Suddenlink, Time Warner Cable.

Redemtech, a technology refurbishment company, has committed to offer a refurbished $150 + tax powerful laptop, or desktop with LCD monitor, to all eligible school lunch families, shipped to the home.

Microsoft, starting early next year, will work with its hardware partners to introduce a series of affordable, high-quality education computers, starting at $250, that include Windows and Office. Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to digital inclusion worldwide means they view access to broadband and a computer as a right for all, not a privilege for some.

Morgan Stanley has committed to contributing its significant microfinance expertise to assist Connect to Compete in its development of a microcredit program to help families afford the upfront cost of a PC. This program will also aim to provide financial literacy training and help families build credit history through successful loan repayment. These microloans will be provided by community-based financial institutions.

Altman Vilandrie & Company (AV&Co.), a strategy consulting firm, is contributing its industry expertise and analytic consulting capabilities to the Connect to Compete initiative. They will help integrate the generous public and private sponsor contributions into a sustainable program through the development of a business and operating plan.
The Appalachian Regional Commission, a federal partnership of the 13 Appalachian states, works to bring Appalachia into economic parity with the rest of the nation by creating sustainable economic opportunities and improved quality of life. ARC enthusiastically supports the Connect to Compete Initiative and will help assist in the planning and implementation activities within Appalachia.

Delta Regional Authority, a federal-state partnership that works for sustained community and economic development in the Delta region, will support Connect to Compete with a planning and development grant. DRA will also be integral to the planning and implementation phrases of the project in its region.