Broadband for Alaskans

Over the next few years, the federal government will spend billions of dollars across the country to make internet service available to ALL communities. But instead of just giving the states money, they did something really smart: they aren’t releasing any funding until states recognize and make efforts to remove the barriers people are experiencing to both accessing and utilizing the internet.

The State of Alaska, Rasmuson Foundation and other community partners have embarked on a statewide listening tour. This information will be used to draft a plan for addressing these barriers. The end goal is a better quality of life for all Alaskans.

To ensure every Alaskan's needs are considered, we need your help. Your and your community's input is critical. From hosting a community event to sharing your experience to taking a quick speed test, there are a variety of ways you can help. The resources on this website are here to make it easy for you to learn more and to contribute to the solution.

Digital Equity means a brighter future for all Alaskans

Digital equity is not a luxury but a necessity. It ensures all communities and individuals have access to the information they need to participate fully in society.

Did you know:

Alaska ranks 51st in BroadbandNow’s annual rankings internet coverage, speed and availability.[1]
9% of Alaskans don’t have internet access or a device.[2]
80% of Alaskans cannot get broadband at an affordable price ($60/month or less excluding promotions and government programs). [3]
21% of Alaskans are not able to purchase a broadband plan that is considered “high speed” internet (connection speeds of at least 25Mbps download and 3Mbps upload). [4]

Digital equity teams are holding listening sessions throughout the state. The project is seeking the voices of Alaskans who are low income, over 60, incarcerated, veterans, have a disability, are learning English, are members of racial or ethnic minorities, or reside in a rural area. More than 80% percent of Alaskans fall into one or more of these groups.

We believe it is the right of all Alaskans to be able to connect to their families, health care, workplace, educational opportunities and more online. To make this happen, we need your input. We need you to lend your voice to the digital equity conversation. With funding, time, and the support of Alaskans like you, we can bridge the digital divide.