Next Century Cities works alongside communities of all sizes and political stripes to support local officials who are working to expand broadband access and increase adoption. All are committed to bringing fast, affordable, and reliable high-speed connectivity within reach for their residents.

NEW: Emergency Broadband Benefit Resources for Members

Next Century Cities has created a resource page for members to learn more about the Emergency Broadband Benefit. The benefit is the FCC’s newest broadband assistance program aimed at connecting low-income households.

Visit this page to explore resources, Frequently Asked Questions, and receive the most up-to-date information on the program.

Explore the EBB Resource Page

The Digital Divide in Our Backyard

Next Century Cities is proud to release case studies on the state of broadband access and adoption in cities across the country. Interviews and research were conducted with cooperation from local officials and community leaders. Local governments in each municipality have partnered with philanthropic entities and private sector allies to address persistent connectivity gaps which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click to Read the Case Studies

Mapping Across America

Next Century Cities is highlighting local and state mapping initiatives across the United States.
Click below to visit our mapping page and learn about innovative programs being used to identify
communities that still do not have access to high-speed connectivity.

Click to Learn More

The Path to Recovery: COVID-19

Next Century Cities Joins the City of Detroit & Connect 313 Advocates For A Community Update on the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 provided $3.2 billion to create the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (“EBB”). This program provides eligible households a $50 benefit ($75 on tribal lands) to purchase a broadband internet subscription. On February 25,...

Next Century Cities Encourages FCC to Dream Big, Use American Rescue Plan Funding to Address the Digital Divide

Through American Rescue Plan, Congress appropriated $7 billion for the Emergency Connectivity Fund for schools and libraries. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the agency tasked with developing rules for distributing the funds, sought public comment on its...

The Digital Divide Will Make Us Sicker

In 2021, the nation’s digital divide presents itself as a serious obstacle to public health and wellness. In order to ensure an effective COVID-19 vaccination roll out and the continuity of routine medical care, local governments must leverage existing federal...

Here’s What the American Rescue Plan Could Do to Support Broadband In Your Community

Even though thousands of Americans are getting vaccinated each day, the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Families who are still struggling to pay utilities, small businesses still have difficulty keeping their doors open, and students continue to distance...

Next Century Cities Submits Comments on the FCC’s Request for Response to the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program

View a pdf of this press release here. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Brittany-Rae Gregory brittany-rae@nextcenturycities.org NEXT CENTURY CITIES SUBMITS COMMENTS ON THE FCC's REQUEST FOR RESPONSE TO THE EMERGENCY BROADBAND BENEFIT PROGRAM Washington D.C....

In the time of COVID-19, the need for universal connectivity is stronger than ever as businesses shutter, unemployment rates rise, schools convert to online learning and doctors turn to telehealth services. No one can afford to be disconnected as we shelter-in-place.

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City to City Membership Organization

Supporting Cities

Communities stepping into the 21st century through next-generation networks face myriad challenges. It is essential to provide crucial support to facilitate these innovative projects. Next Century Cities and our members work to overcome obstacles to success.

See our member directory

Elevating the Conversation

We work with leaders and their communities to share their stories. We make the case that next-generation internet is essential infrastructure that can deliver transformative benefits to communities today.

Learn more about what we do

Tools for Success

Developing a next-generation network is a daunting task for any city. We are committed to developing and aggregating resources to guide new projects.

Find resources