Question:

In my rural community, lack of access to the Internet stymies startups and new growth companies.

Mo: The number one obstacle to rural economic vitality is lack of bandwidth.

In the short term, consider installing free wireless in your downtown. City or private sector sponsors will often step up to pay for this. Ask them. It is a small thing with a huge impact. I realize it doesn’t address speed issues but it will improve accessibility.

Long term, look at the federal funds available to help rural telecoms upgrade. USDA and EDA both have resources. For inspiration, check out Jackson and Owseld Counties in Kentucky. Between local tenacity, USDA funds and a non-profit training organization called Teleworks USA, they’ve created more than 300 jobs in two counties with a total population of around 6,100.