The Benton Foundation has created a guidebook – Pathways to Digital Equity: How Communities Can Reach Their Broadband Goals—and How Philanthropy Can Help. They recognize that philanthropy has at least two roles to play. First, and most obvious, funding. Yes, a boatload of funding is coming into broadband – more than we could have dared to dream 10 years ago – but it will not be enough. We need the philanthropic community to help reach everyone. Second, and maybe even more importantly, philanthropy can get people to the table to join the discussion. Some people show up for the possibility of a check but that doesn’t mean they don’t listen and learn. Also, philanthropy often partners with policymakers and frontline leaders. And philanthropy can take the long view. Nonprofits are worried about keeping the doors open, businesses are worried about making money and elected officials worry about the next vote. Philanthropy can be patient.

Here are the chapters in the guidebook…

• How Philanthropy Can Help Communities Reach Their Broadband Goals
• Chicago Mobilized Philanthropy to Connect School Kids, Then Built On These Partnerships to Accomplish Broader Digital Equity Goals
• Heartland Forward Helps Accelerate Community-Driven Broadband Infrastructure Planning
• Philanthropy Builds Capacity So Equity Is at the Forefront of Broadband Infrastructure Dollars Spent in California
• Experts in Community Networks and Tribal Connectivity Collaborate With Philanthropy to Address the Digital Divide in Native American Communities
• The Just Transition Fund Invests in Closing the Digital Divide to Strengthen Economic Resilience in Coal-Affected Communities
• Health Conversion Foundations Leverage Matching Grants to Bring Broadband Infrastructure to Virginia Counties
• Texas Rural Funders Plays an Essential Role in State Broadband Efforts
• Philanthropy Joins Hands to Build a New Generation of Leaders to Help Bring People Online
• Island Institute’s Rural Community Engagement Amplifies Maine’s Broadband Efforts