How Anchor Institutions Became Critical Players in Addressing Universal Service Goals

Community anchor institutions (CAIs)—such as schools, libraries, community health centers, and similar organizations—play a crucial role in offering free or affordable internet access to underserved communities. In many areas, the connectivity options offered by CAIs—whether on-site (via wired or wireless networks) or through remote programs like hotspot lending—are among the few affordable and reliable services available. Rural residents, in particular, face significant barriers to connectivity, as the internet services available to them are often slow, unreliable, and prohibitively expensive. U.S. telecommunications policy has sought to address broadband infrastructure gaps and reduce connectivity costs for low-income households through initiatives like the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. However, experts and state officials have argued that these efforts may not fully close persistent access gaps. As a result, many households continue to struggle with maintaining consistent internet access. To help bridge these digital divides, CAIs—supported by federal, state, and local policies—have become essential partners in delivering internet services and advancing universal broadband access nationwide.

[Emily C. Rubin is a doctoral candidate in Journalism & Media at the University of Texas at Austin and a Benton Opportunity Fund Fellow. Her research focuses on the role of community anchor institutions in state BEAD and Digital Equity Program plans. Rubin also holds an MFA in Media Studies from Long Island University, Brooklyn.]