Next Century Cities’ mission is to ensure local leaders have the resources and autonomy to develop the connectivity solutions their communities need. We know that the most powerful digital equity movements involve community members who are informed and local leaders who are ready to collaborate. 

In June, NCC released Resources for Broadband Advocates: Making Digital Equity a Reality in Pennsylvania, proving our commitment to empowering residents with ways to advocate for themselves. On May 26, 2023, NCC hosted a webinar highlighting key takeaways from the report. 

Participants received an overview of broadband access and adoption in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. NCC staff highlighted federal and state broadband developments, focusing on role-model communities statewide. Jennifer Blatz, Program Director at the Greater Pittsburgh Digital Inclusion Alliance, encouraged advocates and residents to work in coalition to advance digital equity goals. Sascha Meinrath, Palmer Chair in Telecommunications at Penn State University and Founder of X-Lab, warned participants about the consequences of poor broadband mapping and misconceived investment strategies. 

Click here to review the Pennsylvania report. It is a power mapping exercise that can be replicated for local leaders in other states. We invite you to share stories or recommendations that could make the report more useful for community leaders by emailing us at info@nextcenturycities.org.