Appalachia Digital Accelerator

Much of Appalachia lacks the digital infrastructure it needs, holding back social and economic opportunities. To accelerate internet access, Connect Humanity and the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) have partnered to support 71 of Appalachia’s least-connected communities to plan for next-generation broadband networks.

Group photograph of team members and participants of the Appalachia Digital Accelerator.

Accelerating broadband for economic development

71 Communities

24 grantees joined the Appalachia Digital Accelerator to advance broadband in 71 of the region’s least served communities.

48 Connectivity Plans

With support from their Lead Community Agency (LCA) and technical experts, grantees created connectivity plans to meet their digital needs.

$63+ million catalyzed

Equipped with plans and support from the Accelerator, grantees are continuing to raise funds to drive progress on broadband connectivity.

Man interacting with a tablet computer

Connectivity Plan Showcase

The Accelerator provides resources and technical support for 24 grantees across 71 rural communities to advance broadband access and adoption. Communities have developed connectivity plans to tackle their digital divides, expanding reliable internet access and addressing barriers to adoption.

Chris Mitchell, ILSR delivers training at a program workshop

Events & Webinars

Image of post-its on a planning board

Tools & Resources

Accelerator News

Southeast

How local leaders are wiring Appalachia for the future

In this progress update, learn how grantees are turning connectivity plans in to programs and funding proposals to expand digital opportunities across Appalachia.


Community Spotlight

Broadband is back in Fleming-Neon: How community perseverance paid off

Three years after floods left the town’s internet barely usable, local leaders have secured major upgrades — and today, residents are getting lightning-fast service.


Community Spotlight

Graham County sees a fiber future, but digital skills funding is in doubt

Appalachia Digital Accelerator grantee, G.R.E.A.T., shares progress on broadband planning, mapping wins, and building toward countywide fiber.


Views

To expand broadband, communities need clarity on government funding

As they work flat out to expand fast, reliable internet access, Accelerator grantees share why it’s so important federal broadband programs move forward without delay.


Meet the Accelerator Communities

A project in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), which contributed $6.3 million (80% of the total project cost).

Appalachian Regional Commission Logo