The fact of the matter is that, in 2024, internet access is no longer a nice to have, it is basic. Almost every industry relies on computing, cloud storage, cloud payment systems, and other digital equipment to sell goods and services. Employers increasingly demand more advanced digital skills from the labor force. Meanwhile, people’s individual lives often orbit around the internet, whether at home, at work, or on the move.

We believe that broadband should now be called essential infrastructure. That means universal access at affordable prices.

It is a sad fact that in many parts of the United States, despite its importance, broadband is still far from ubiquitous. Millions of households do not have access to high-speed wireline or wireless services, and many more lack the digital skills or income to use online services. These gaps persist across all kinds of places: in every single state, regardless of density levels, from small towns to urban neighborhoods, and among demographic groups of all races, educational attainments, and income levels.

California Broadband Alliance was formed to work on these issues, focusing on the Central Coast region of California.