Rural Broadband Project Named 'World Changing Idea'

TheAmerican Connection Corpswas named toFast Company’sannual list ofWorld Changing Ideas,recognition that honors businesses, policies, projects and concepts that play an important role in building a better world through bold ideas.

The American Connection Corps was selected as a finalist in theCorporate Social Responsibility, Pandemic Response, and Politics & Policycategory and receivedan honorable mention in the Enduring Impact: 15+ years in business category.

Agroup of diverse and dedicated partners came togetherto create the American Connection Corps in early 2021, an innovative fellowship program focused on bridging the digital divide: led byLand O’Lakes, Inc.in conjunction with Lead For America and 19 other diverse partners: Heartland Forward,CoBank, Tractor Supply Co, Microsoft, Mayo Clinic,American Farm Bureau,Scoular,CHS,Zoetis, Tillamook, University of Minnesota, Ariel Investments, Midwest Dairy, Purdue University, Berea College, CentraCare, Common Sense and Illinois Extension.

This group from all corners of the country representing a variety of interests came together to challenge the status quo and to take action – together. The goal is to create a scalable, successful model for economic development – demonstrating one more way to make an impact in communities critical to our success as a nation.

The ACC empowers dozens of Fellows in local public-serving institutions in their hometowns, to serve as community leaders focused specifically on connectivity. And these Fellows, well, they’re already making a difference. In the first few months of their work, Fellows have:

• Successfully connected over 500 households with high-speed internet
• Led 2,000 households in speed mapping initiatives to increase broadband access
• Conducted 7 workshops and trained 30 digital navigators in Q1 to boost digital literacy in their communities
• Over 600 total desktops, laptops, and tablets distributed to communities to boost digital access
• Established 40 new partnerships with community stakeholders around broadband development and digital literacy

Through their work over a two-year period, the group hopes to not only make a meaningful impact in these communities, but to also demonstrate to state and federal policymakers the impact that substantial investment in America’s communities has through connectivity.

It’s a multiplier effect that ripples across education, health care, entrepreneurship – and well beyond, says Land O' Lakes.

“Connected communities are more competitive, and this program brings much-needed assistance to address connectivity issues in communities that are not connected today,” says Tina May, Land O’Lakes, Inc. chief of staff to the CEO and vice president for rural services.

“The determination, hard work and grit of these fellows is making a real difference for people in communities across the country. It’s not just about getting connectivity, but what that connectivity enables such as better healthcare, education and economic opportunities for people and communities."

The American Connection Corps is a pillar of the American Connection Project, convened by Land O’Lakes.

—Feed & Grain Staff