Next Century Cities Membership
Next Century Cities supports mayors and community leaders across the country as they seek to ensure that
everyone has fast, affordable, and reliable internet access. We connect with local leaders through our growing network of over 220 municipal governments from over 40 states. Membership in Next Century Cities is free for any municipal government including cities, counties, villages, towns, and more.
We work with leaders and their communities to share stories. Cities that have or would like to develop truly next-generation networks are visionary cities, and their leaders recognize what it takes to be competitive in the 21st century. Next Century Cities works with these leaders and their cities to make the case nationally and within communities that next-generation internet is an essential infrastructure that can deliver transformative benefits to communities today.
Developing a next-generation network is a daunting task for a city of any size. It is important that communities have access to resources, advice, and tools to develop effective broadband internet networks. We are committed to developing and aggregating resources to guide new projects, as well as tools to help those already equipped with this infrastructure better leverage their networks to yield community benefits.
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 together to overcome obstacles to success.
Too often, local governments are not given a voice in national policy conversations. Next Century Cities advocates on behalf of member communities for federal policies that support broadband infrastructure deployment, digital equity and adoption, local choice, and competition.
How do we join?
Joining Next Century Cities is free and easy. Any municipality may join by reaching out to the Next Century Cities team via the “learn more” form below.
To officially join the Next Century Cities network, an elected official will be required to submit a written confirmation that you agree to our shared principles and wish to join Next Century Cities. Your confirmation can take the form of:
- A confirmation email
- A letter
- A resolution
Next Century Cities' Shared Principles
Fast, reliable, and affordable internet access is no longer optional. Residents, schools, libraries, and businesses require next-generation connectivity to succeed.
Because broadband is an essential resource for residents and businesses in all communities, the provision of fast, reliable, and affordable internet access transcends partisanship.
Cities, towns, and counties should have the right to consider all potential broadband solutions – whether public, nonprofit, corporate, or some other hybrid – free from interference.
It is critical to involve multiple stakeholders and perspectives when building effective next-generation networks, including businesses, community organizations, residents, anchor institutions, and others. Everyone in a community should be able to access the internet on reasonable terms.
A vibrant, diverse marketplace, with transparency in offerings, pricings, and policies will spur innovation, increase investment, and lower prices. Communities, residents, and businesses should have a meaningful choice in providers.
Innovative approaches to broadband deployment present diverse challenges and opportunities to communities and regions. Working together, cities, towns, and counties can learn from the experiences of others, lower costs, and make the best use of next-generation networks.
Learn More
To become a member or learn more about the process, contact us here!
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