Road Map to Connecting the Under-connected: Towns and cities at core of digital inclusion policies and partnerships

In the hopes of increasing digital equity, here are some observations and suggestions for framing, enacting and collectively furthering digital inclusion policy. 1) Terminology helps frame policy. 2) Anchor policy in comprehensive frameworks. 3) Government has a role as a convener & participant, but not a singular responsibility. 4) Digital inclusion planning and policy should be intentional, and also nurtured. 5) Build community capacity and work with trusted ambassadors. 6) Read between the data lines.  7) An international hub for digital inclusion researchers, indicators, survey tools and data could make a significant difference in the field. 8) Embed and integrate digital inclusion into your mission and all layers of policy and programs. 9) Public benefit guidelines, regulation and partnerships can and should be used to address multiple aspects of digital inclusion. 10) Ensuring the authority for local governments to negotiate public benefits and consumer protections that are responsive to local needs is being strongly challenged and is a significant policy issue for the country. 11) Someone needs to do more to tackle consumer labeling, education, and awareness for broadband and telecom services.