Why Join CBAN?
Imagine having a trusted friend who knows everything about bringing fast internet to your community. That's what CBAN is – a network of over 200 organizations working together to help communities like yours get better internet access and empower your residents with the digital skills and tools they need to succeed. Whether you're a local internet provider, a town exploring internet options, or simply someone who believes everyone deserves high quality broadband and the benefits it brings, CBAN is your go-to resource.
We're Here to Guide You
Think of us as your broadband mentor. Through our weekly Broadband Bytes newsletter and engaging Broadband Action podcast, we keep you in the loop about what's happening in the internet world. Just starting to explore broadband for your community? We'll walk you through it. Already building? We've got your back. Our goal is to make sure everyone in your community can get online and make the most of it.
You're Not Alone
Remember that challenging project where talking to someone who'd "been there, done that" made all the difference? That's what you'll find within CBAN. Our members have tackled the same challenges you're facing now, and they're ready to share what they've learned. Whether you're a public or private organization, you'll find partners who can help turn your broadband dreams into reality.
Everyone's Welcome
We believe money shouldn't stand between communities and better internet. That's why most organizations can join CBAN for free. Only service providers pay a membership fee. Think of it as a "pay it forward" system where those who can contribute help make our resources available to everyone.
Tangible Benefits
CBAN empowers communities to successfully explore and expand local broadband access and adoption through:
- Education:
- Digital equity program support
- Network exploration, construction, launch, and operations guidance for communities
- Broadband policy insights that affect us all
- Consistent communication through our Broadband Bytes newsletter and Broadband Action podcast
- Facilitation: Supporting your work through member connection and information and resource sharing
- Collaboration: Encouraging new partnerships, both public and private
CBAN Membership Categories
CBAN structures its membership to serve every organization and individual involved in expanding community broadband access. Let's explore each category and understand who it serves:
Community Members (Free)
Community membership serves public and community-based organizations that have recognized broadband improvement as a priority in their area. This includes municipalities, counties, utilities, community organizations, and other entities looking to enhance local internet access. Whether planning to build independent networks or partner with existing providers, these members receive support in exploring and implementing solutions that fit their community's unique needs.
Provider Members (Free)
Provider membership welcomes internet service providers who demonstrate dedication to community-focused broadband development. These members understand the value of collaboration and often share their expertise with communities beginning their broadband journey. Provider members play a crucial role in CBAN by offering mentorship and exploring partnership opportunities with communities seeking to improve their connectivity.
Associate Members (Annual Dues)
Associate membership serves companies and organizations offering products and services that support community broadband initiatives. These members commit to fair, transparent business practices that help communities achieve their broadband goals. Associate membership fees vary based on company size, reflecting the business nature of their participation while ensuring accessibility for organizations of all scales.
This carefully structured membership framework ensures that every stakeholder in the community broadband ecosystem can participate in ways that align with their goals and capabilities, while maintaining free access for those directly involved in community broadband development.
Advocate Members (Free)
Advocate membership encompasses individuals and groups who champion comprehensive broadband improvement in their communities. These members work to ensure their communities explore all possible avenues for enhancing internet service accessibility, affordability, and adoption. Advocates often serve as vital bridges between community needs and potential solutions, helping drive positive change in local broadband landscapes.
Ready to Join?
Getting started is simple. We have four membership options to match your role in bringing better internet to your community. When you join CBAN, you become part of a movement that's working to ensure every American community has the reliable internet service and empowerment resources it deserves.
See our full membership roster here.
CBAN members are not members of the 501(c)(4) nonprofit, Community Broadband Action Network Corp., and have no voting or class rights. Your participation indirectly supports CBAN Corp.’s nonprofit activities.