BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Heartland Forward announced the launch of Arkansas Connectivity Coalition, which is expected to help communities by ensuring the accessibility and affordability of high-speed internet throughout the state.
According to the company's press release, the group was created in an effort to support plans that were put in place by both the state and local communities.
The announcement of the coalition comes with the launch of 'Accelerate Arkansas', the first of the group's efforts toward the expansion of broadband internet throughout Arkansas. The program will help communities implement a plan that will disperse federal funds to ensure that individuals are receiving access to high-quality, affordable internet.
Chief Program Officer for Heartland Forward Angie Cooper says that there is a true need for broadband expansion throughout the state which makes the issue an economic one.
"If people don't have access to high speed internet, it becomes a real challenge", said Cooper. “The Arkansas Connectivity Coalition shares a common purpose of working to close the digital divide and to ensure Arkansas is building a future that leverages high-speed internet to improve economic opportunity, education and health outcomes and effective delivery of services."
Accelerate Arkansas will provide local leaders from over 15 organizations with over 30 hours of counsel from the Benton Institute. The collaboration with Benton Institute for Broadband and Society will help the coalition to identify various broadband goals, gather data, and understand the availability of funds to support the high-speed internet implementation.
The coalition will also be working alongside institutions such as the University of Arkansas, the Arkansas System Division of Arkansas, Arkansas Community Foundation, the Arkansas Electric Cooperative Corporation and many others.
Cooper says that these collaborations are exciting because it will give communities the support they need to get residents and families connected to affordable, high-speed internet.
"Through the Infrastructure Bill, every state gets at least $100 million and there's opportunities for more dollars to be used - we want those dollars to come to Arkansas," said Cooper.
According to Cooper, the funds will help to increase the internet access that is needed and drive an economic future for communities in Arkansas.
The company says that they are excited for Accelerate Arkansas and look forward to working with communities throughout the state.
To read more about the Arkansas Connectivity Coalition and 'Accelerate Arkansas', click here.
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