Two important trends are driving more communities to consider community engagement in broadband availability for the first time. First is the fact that broadband as a necessary element of everyday life is not a theoretical discussion anymore.  Almost everyone wants broadband so that they can participate fully in 21st Century life.  What might have been hyperbole ten years ago is now undeniably true.  Lack of broadband lowers property values and impacts quality of life.  No doubt about it.  Second, the availability of state and federal fund to address rural broadband issues seems to be growing.  Unprepared communities will soon see the funds flowing to their better prepared neighbors, thus motivating communities to get busy and play catch up.

Join Blandin Foundation consultant Bill Coleman and guests for this webinar that will address key topics, like: What is broadband and why is broadband important?  How do you analyze your existing broadband networks and services.  The webinar will provide an overview of wired and wireless broadband technologies and discuss alternative paths to better community broadband.  Tools and resources for community broadband initiatives, including those of the Blandin Foundation, will be highlighted.

Wednesday, January 7, 2015
02:00 – 03:00 PM

Register Here