We are proud partners of Accelerating Access: Preparing Appalachian Communities for Digital Equity, a new Connect Humanity project funded by a $6.3M grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).
The grant will help us build on the work we have already done in Eastern Kentucky to expand broadband access.
Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE) is a new ARC initiative that aims to drive large-scale, regional economic transformation through multistate, collaborative projects across Appalachia.
Partners in 12 Appalachian states will provide 50 communities with the support they need to develop plans that connect all residents with affordable, high-speed broadband, improved device access, and digital literacy training.
The growing list of project partners include:
- Center on Rural Innovation
- Empire State Development
- Enterprise Center
- Fair Count
- Generation WV
- Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits & Philanthropy
- NC State University Institute for Emerging Issues
- SOAR – Shaping Our Appalachian Region
- Student Freedom Initiative
- Center for Strategic Partnerships at the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
- Virginia Funders Network
The assistance provided to Eastern Kentucky communities and other Appalachian communities will help local partners access federal funding opportunities for broadband development, ensuring more Appalachian households can participate in our digitized economy.
Interested communities in Eastern Kentucky can learn more and apply HERE.
Here is a list of ARC resources to help you learn more about the program: