Municipal Fiber Networks Power Digital Inclusion Programs

Digital inclusion is the practice of ensuring digital equity, a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy. To succeed, digital inclusion practitioners must address the many barriers to digital equity, including unaffordable broadband subscriptions, lack of access to devices, and insufficient digital skills. Communities with publicly owned networks are well-positioned to develop digital inclusion initiatives. For one thing, control of the broadband infrastructure gives cities the opportunity to set their own prices and establish their own programs. Additionally, close relationships with other city departments and community organizations give municipal networks an advantage over other providers. These connections enable a more comprehensive approach to digital inclusion that incorporates affordability, access to devices, and digital literacy across many city programs. Most importantly, because local governments are motivated by community benefit not maximizing profits, municipal networks are driven to develop the best digital inclusion offerings possible.