Here are five major categories of groups for a membership website aligned with the Broadband Institute Foundation’s mission, along with appropriate labels and definitions:
1. Community Broadband Advocates
Definition: Individuals and organizations working to promote broadband as a public utility, digital equity, and infrastructure expansion in underserved areas. They focus on policy advocacy, public education, and community-driven broadband solutions.
2. Municipal & Cooperative Network Operators
Definition: Representatives from city-owned, tribal, and cooperative broadband networks, sharing best practices, operational insights, and strategies for sustainable, community-owned broadband deployment.
3. Broadband Infrastructure & Technology Partners
Definition: Companies, engineers, and service providers specializing in fiber optics, wireless solutions, network deployment, and supply chain management, contributing technical expertise and infrastructure solutions.
4. Funding & Policy Experts
Definition: Professionals in broadband financing, grants, and public funding mechanisms who provide guidance on securing resources for broadband projects, such as those available through federal programs like BEAD and RDOF.
5. Digital Inclusion & Equity Champions
Definition: Organizations and individuals focused on bridging the digital divide through affordability programs, digital literacy initiatives, and ensuring that broadband access is equitable and inclusive.