Collaboration is Key to Increasing Broadband Access in Western North Carolina

When it comes to improving the health and well-being of all people in Western North Carolina, expanding access to broadband is a necessary part of the work. Having reliable internet and the skills to use it are critical for every aspect of our lives—from accessing health care and landing a job to paying bills and learning new skills. Reliable internet is even more crucial in rural areas, connecting residents to vital services and helping people build businesses that serve their local community and beyond. Dogwood Health Trust launched a Digital Opportunities Initiative in early 2025 to help make the internet available, affordable, and useful for everyone in WNC. Ten collaboratives comprised of more than 50 organizations of all shapes and sizes are working to break down barriers like cost, access to devices, and digital literacy. Collaboration is key. This work cannot be done alone. The initiative is built on community partnerships that engage residents, share information, and create homegrown solutions to bring internet service and skills across WNC. This focus on collaboration is building lasting partnerships and community leadership for not only broadband but other opportunities for improving people’s lives.