GETTING ALL TEXANS CONNECTED
Texas Rural Funders began supporting rural broadband efforts in 2018. We could have never anticipated then that the 2020 COVID-19 crisis would shine a direct spotlight on the disparities rural communities experience in accessing highspeed internet for remote learning, work, and healthcare needs. TRF saw the need to adopt an even bolder strategy:
Funding Broadband Maps
Texas Rural Funders supports Connected Nation Texas to collect timely, accurate data on broadband access statewide. Rural Texans can use this free public data to chart their community’s path forward in expanding broadband access. TRF is also sharing Connected Nation Texas’ broadband maps and best practices with state leaders, enabling them to make informed and impactful decisions.
Building a Broad Coalition Across Sectors
Texas Rural Funders is activating its network to educate and advocate around the need for universal, affordable broadband access. We reached out to Texas 2036 and Greater Houston Partnership to establish Digital Texas, a “coalition of coalitions” focused on securing access to affordable broadband for all Texans.
Amplifying Rural Voices
Leaders across the state are organizing in their communities around broadband access, with no shortage of determination. TRF’s recent publication Broadband Stories from Rural Texas highlights several of these communities, with leaders detailing their journeys and lessons learned along the way.
Texas Broadband Funding Guide
