Recent Insights into Successful Broadband Partnerships

Key Points

• Broadband partnerships between Rural Local Exchange Carriers (RLEC) and Electric Distribution Cooperatives (EDs) are uncommon, but when done right, can benefit all involved.
• Successful partnerships capitalize on each party’s unique strengths, which requires consistent, transparent communication, and flexibility at all levels.
• Once the business model has been agreed upon, it is critical to clearly define each party’s responsibilities concerning their shared customers and the infrastructure used to serve them.
• Thinking beyond near-term profits, RLECs and EDs should work with their local communities to maximize broadband’s economic development benefits, thereby helping to create long-term community value and growth in their customer base.

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