Broadband Illinois

Presence Health Receives Partnership for a Connected Illinois Award for Excellence in Telehealth Leadership

09/17/2017 04:22 PM

Presence Health Cited for Leading Telehealth Legislative Change Supporting Behavioral Health Patients

Dr. Karen S. Rheuban: Expanding broadband will improve America’s health

06/25/2017 11:45 AM

2017 Telehealth Bootcamp Series Off to a Great Start

05/24/2017 07:19 PM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois recently held the first of two forums as part of the 2017 Telehealth Bootcamp Series at McDermott Will & Emery in Chicago.

2017 Telehealth Bootcamp Series Off to a Great Start

05/21/2017 08:10 PM

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Partnership for a Connected Illinois Hosts Second Telehealth Law Forum

Published: June 13, 2016

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois has wrapped up the second in a three-part series of Telehealth Law Forums. The forum was simultaneously held in Chicago, Carbondale, Naperville, and Springfield, IL and was also available via Live Stream. Here are some photo highlights of the event!

For more information on this event, please click here.

To register for the final forum, click here.

PCI Receives Planning Grant for School Based Tele-Behavioral Health

02/26/2017 09:53 PM

PCI Receives Grant from The Sprague Institute to Plan School-Based Tele-Behavioral Health for the Chicago Public Schools

Platinum Telehealth Initiative Sponsor McDermott Will and Emery LLP Chosen as Lawfirm of the Year

11/20/2016 10:05 AM

Law Firm wins prestigious award from U.S. News

September 13th Event Concludes Three-Part Illinois Telehealth Law Forum Series

09/18/2016 08:07 PM

Digital Health: An Improving Environment for Investors

07/18/2016 07:46 PM

The integration of technology into health care delivery is exploding throughout the health industry landscape. Commentators speculating on the implications of the information revolution’s penetration of the health care industry envision delivery models rivaling those imagined by celebrated science fiction authors, and claim that the integration of information technology into even the most basic health care delivery functions can reduce cost, increase access, improve quality and, in some instances, fundamentally change the way health care is delivered.

Telehealth offers convenient service for patients

07/18/2016 07:43 PM

Dr. Stepnen Stone, Doctor of Dermatology at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield video conferencing Tuesday with Kara Williams of Pittsfield during an appointment in Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield. Southern Illinois University School of Medicine has expanded its telehealth program at sites including Pittsfield, Carthage and Quincy.

Telemedicine shows promise in Parkinson’s disease care

07/18/2016 07:38 PM

Like countless other patients, Ann Johnson, a retired veterinarian, has been willing to travel long distances and devote an entire day to be treated by a specialist at Rush University Medical Center. But a recent appointment lasted less than 30 minutes, and the only travel was to her living room.

SIU plans major expansion of telehealth services

07/18/2016 07:30 PM

From his family’s dining room table in Lincoln — through his parents’ webcam-enabled laptop on a home WiFi network — 5-year-old David Heady worked to expand his vocabulary and improve his pronunciation Monday with the help of a therapist sitting in her office in Springfield.

Partnership for a Connected Illinois Hosts Second Telehealth Law Forum

06/13/2016 07:04 PM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois has wrapped up the second of a three-part series of Telehealth Law Forums.

ATA16: Reduced heart failure readmissions stemmed from telehealth network participation, providers say

05/23/2016 09:01 PM

The reduction of readmission rates for heart failure patients is just one of the benefits touted by health system representatives of the Illinois Telehealth Network (ITN) on Tuesday at the American Telemedicine Association's annual conference in Minneapolis.

Live Video Is Most Prominent Reimbursed Form Of Telehealth

05/07/2016 04:38 PM

The most predominant reimbursed form of telehealth is live video. The District of Columbia and 47 states provided reimbursement for live video in Medicaid fee-for-service last year. Nine states reimburse for store and forward telemedicine, and sixteen states offer reimbursement for remote patient monitoring (RPM), remaining static from last year. Only five state Medicaid programs (Alaska, Illinois, Minnesota, Mississippi, and Washington) reimburse for all three telehealth services (live feed, store and forward, and RPM), an increase of one state since July 2015.

Benton Honored Posthumously

04/24/2016 12:58 PM

PCI Chairman Emeritus Charles Benton was honored posthumously at the inaugural Illinois Telehealth Initiative Telehealth Law Forum.

Could Insurers Use Telemedicine to Widen Provider Networks?

04/20/2016 06:50 PM

Many states are tightening their network adequacy standards, and telemedicine might help insurance companies meet those standards, especially in rural and underserved areas, notes a new report sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Pinckneyville hospital offers telemedicine services for stroke patients

04/20/2016 06:47 PM

Pinckneyville Community Hospital is partnering with the Southern Illinois Telemedicine Initiative to offer state-of-the-art telemedicine technology that puts patients in touch with immediate time-saving, life-saving stroke evaluation and treatment.

Telehealth helps enhance care for patients in McHenry County

03/23/2016 09:21 PM

According to the Illinois Telehealth Initiative, an initiative of Partnership for Connected Illinois, there is a projected shortage of 130,000 physicians by 2025, meaning it will be more important to connect patients with doctors across distance.

Illinois Telemedicine Rules: Licensing, Practice, Payment

02/28/2016 07:06 PM

National Law Review

Tackling Sepsis With Telemedicine

12/13/2015 12:32 PM

Backed by an AHRQ grant, an Illinois health system is building a platform to help rural doctors identify and treat sepsis, dubbed the top preventable cause of deaths in hospitals

On National Rural Health Day, USDA Announces $23.4 Million in Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants for 75 Projects in 31 States

11/22/2015 07:16 PM

Springfield, Illinois based St. John's Hospital chosen to receive funds to provide teleconferencing equipment to three rural hospitals.

An “All of the Above” Approach to Rural Broadband

11/22/2015 07:12 PM

Illinois Representative John Shimkus writes in support of broadband and telemedicine in rural Ilinois communities.

AMA Again Delays Ruling on Telemedicine Ethics

11/22/2015 07:08 PM

The decision leaves state medical boards and providers in limbo, while delegates debate the definition of a valid doctor-patient encounter.

CMS Finalizes Medicare Payment Model With Telehealth Implications

11/18/2015 07:52 PM

http://www.ihealthbeat.org/articles/2015/11/17/cms-finalizes-medicare-payment-model-with-telehealth-implications

The Growing Trend of Telemedicine

11/18/2015 07:47 PM

http://www.pomco.com/the-growing-trend-of-telemedicine/

Walgreens Announces New Digital Health Initiatives; Expands Access to Enhanced MDLIVE Live Doctor Consultation Offering to 20 Additional States

11/18/2015 07:43 PM

Walgreens Connect app powered by Qualcomm Life enables Balance® Rewards members to automatically earn points when using Well at Walgreens Bluetooth blood glucose and blood pressure devices

Company discusses new programs and overall telehealth strategy at mHealth Summit

1871 BECOMES FIRST INCUBATOR IN THE WORLD TO OFFER HEALTHCARE EXCHANGE FOR ITS MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY

11/08/2015 08:34 PM

1871 Works with Wolf Point Advisors to Develop Unique Solution; Members Able To Sign Up For Coverage Beginning November 15; Alumni Companies Will Be Eligible; Major Step Forward in Advancing the Interests of Startups in Chicago

Frontier Communications Offers Small Business Customers a “Price for Life”

11/08/2015 08:32 PM

Budget certainty is critical for small business owners and operators

1871 RANKS 1st IN UNITED STATES IN STUDY OF NORTH AMERICAN BUSINESS INCUBATORS

11/08/2015 08:30 PM

UBI Global Names 1871 One Of The Top University-Affiliated Business Incubators In North America Following Its Survey Of Over 400 Incubators Across 70 Countries

Pat Quinn, Former Governor of Illinois, to Keynote AnchorNETS Conference

11/08/2015 08:28 PM

Pat Quinn, the former Governor of Illinois, will participate as a Keynote Speaker at the inaugural “AnchorNETS: Broadband Summit for Schools, Health and Libraries” November 16 & 17 at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, California.

PCI Announces Refined Direction

11/08/2015 08:10 PM

PCI to focus on Illinois Telehealth Initiative

PCI Founding Chairman Charles Benton Departs This Life

11/08/2015 07:36 PM

On April 29, 2015, Benton, 84, died at his home in Evanston from complications from renal cancer.

PCI Launches Telehealth Crowdfunding Campaign

04/09/2015 04:33 PM

Organization looks to fund the Illinois Telehealth Initiative

OP-ED: Building a Better Illinois Through Broadband

04/01/2015 11:57 AM

Using momentum to get every Illinoisan connected

Five Year Report on Illinois Broadband Released

04/01/2015 11:55 AM

Highlights Illinois’ achievements and the path forward

Broadband Illinois participates in 1871's TGIF

03/31/2015 11:43 AM

Deputy Director Laura Lane demos the Find & request Broadband Tools

School sending Internet home with the students

03/31/2015 09:34 AM

Paper, pencils and textbooks won’t cut it anymore. Bloomington District 87 offers home Internet access to low-income students.

Press Release: NTIA Announces Second Phase of Funding for State and Local Implementation Grant Program

03/30/2015 10:37 AM

NTIA releases second installment of FirstNet funding

Technology to Close Distance Between Foster Children, Therapists in Rural Kansas

03/30/2015 10:36 AM

Nearly 550 foster families will receive iPads equipped with a video conferencing system that allows children to talk with counselors in a private chat room.

National Broadband Map has Helped Chart Broadband Evolution

03/30/2015 10:35 AM

The impact of the National Broadband Plan over the last five years

Did the National Broadband Plan spur innovation?

03/30/2015 10:34 AM

A reflection on the impact of the National Broadband Plan

Farmers of the Future Will Utilize Drones, Robots and GPS

03/30/2015 10:32 AM

Self-driving machinery and flying robots able to automatically survey and treat crops will become commonplace on farms that practice what’s come to be called precision agriculture.

Livestock Lost? There's an App for That

03/30/2015 10:30 AM

The Herdsman mobile application allows farmers to track livestock from remote locations and receive alerts if the animals go outside a set boundary.

White House Launches Website Analytics Dashboard

03/30/2015 10:29 AM

A new analytics dashboard allows citizens a window into 300-plus federal agency websites.

FACT SHEET: Next Steps in Delivering Fast, Affordable Broadband

03/30/2015 10:27 AM

The White House announces plans to increase provider competition, expand offerings, and create the Broadband Opportunity Council

Proposed Illinois budget threatens digital literacy program

03/30/2015 10:25 AM

IL state budget proposal would eliminate funding for computer training courses

Happy 5th Birthday, National Broadband Plan!

03/30/2015 10:21 AM

An overview of the National Broadband Plan and its success.

Obama Announces TechHire Initiative

03/30/2015 10:19 AM

Looking to boost the nation’s stagnant wage growth in an improving economy, President Barack Obama has announced a government initiative to train and develop a home-grown information technology workforce.

Will Treadmill and Bike Desks Become the New Norm?

03/30/2015 10:18 AM

Americans are getting fatter, working more and moving less, but technologies like treadmill and bike desks haven't taken off. Will they ever?

Florida Lawmakers Debate Bill to Allow Virtual Medical Visits

03/30/2015 10:16 AM

Florida Sen. Arthenia Joyner is optimistic that her telemedicine measure will pass after deleting controversial payment rules.

Social Media Plays Key Role in Education Policy Debate

03/30/2015 10:15 AM

A new coalition is coming together on Twitter that is competing to influence politics that influence policy -- and this coalition is gaining the ears of policy makers.

Google balloons, “cell towers in the sky,” can serve 4G to a whole state

03/30/2015 10:13 AM

A single Project Loon balloon can cover an area the size of Rhode Island.

States Turn to Technology to Calculate Prison Sentences

03/30/2015 10:10 AM

Human error and outdated technology have miscalculated thousands of prison sentences and cost some states millions of dollars.

In Kansas City, Superfast Internet And A Digital Divide

03/30/2015 10:09 AM

Since Google Fiber rolled out gigabit broadband in Kansas City four years ago, residents have enjoyed fast Internet connections, including what locals call "the world's fastest Starbucks."

Apple Watchers Count Down to Apple Watch

03/30/2015 10:07 AM

The company has pitched the product as its most "personal" and physically interactive yet, but consumers haven't yet warmed to wearable devices already on the market.

Webinar Series: How to Build Your Gigabit Network

03/30/2015 10:05 AM

A four part webinar series detailing how to build a municipal broadband network. Hosted by Kirton McConkie telecommunications attorneys David Shaw, Shareholder, and Drew Clark, Of Counsel.

High-speed Internet offerings influence Groupon to hire in KC

03/30/2015 10:02 AM

Groupon is looking to the Kansas City market to boost its workforce, and one of the key factors was the city's abundance of high-speed Internet options.

Free Wi-Fi On Buses Offers A Link To Future Of 'Smart Cities'

03/30/2015 09:59 AM

More than 600 Porto city buses and taxis have been fitted with routers to provide free Wi-Fi service. It's being touted as the biggest Wi-Fi-in-motion network in the world.

FCC Ruling on Net Neutrality: What's Next?

03/30/2015 09:58 AM

By a 3-to-2 vote along party lines, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) passed new rules on Net neutrality last week. The rules establish the Internet as a utility, but court battles loom before the FCC actions can take effect.

A Victory for Everyone Who Uses the Internet

03/30/2015 09:56 AM

Net Neutrality: The greatest commitment ever made to preserve and protect open and free Internet

Internet of Things Expected to Quadruple in Size by 2020

03/30/2015 09:51 AM

Cities will be major beneficiaries from growth in the IoT market, according to a report released by Verizon.

What Two Runaway Llamas Taught Us About Net Neutrality

03/30/2015 09:49 AM

For about two hours today, all the Internet wanted to talk about was the FCC's historic net neutrality decision. (They're in favor of it.) Then, suddenly, all work stopped as the digerati focused their collective attention on two runaway llamas scampering around Phoenix.

Is Social Media the Key to Effective Communication During Campus Emergencies?

03/30/2015 09:43 AM

Study finds that social media lets campus authorities instantly reach a large percentage of students, who are more likely to comply with emergency notifications received in that manner.

How Might 'Robot Journalists' Affect Government?

03/30/2015 09:42 AM

The public sector may find that this software – that takes massive amounts data and crafts it into a narrative – helps get projects done quicker and at cheaper costs.

Jacksonville, Ill., Seeks Enhanced Fiber Connectivity

03/30/2015 09:40 AM

The southwestern Illinois town is forming a committee to look at ways to expand broadband in the region.

Online Jury Reporting Increases Participation, Saves Citizens Time and Angst

03/30/2015 09:39 AM

Lubbock County, Texas, is one of many counties in the state that allows citizens to report for jury duty without heading down to the courthouse.

HSHS Medical Group to Launch Virtual Care Program for Internet-savvy patients

03/30/2015 09:37 AM

Virtual doctors appointments to be offered by Memorial Medical Center in April

Baltimore’s Mobile Bill Pay Serves Millennials, Underserved Populations

03/30/2015 09:29 AM

The service, which took six months to develop, was on the municipality’s wish list for three years.

Netflix and ‘House of Cards’ could be the best thing ever to happen to Cuba’s Internet

03/30/2015 09:27 AM

You may have heard: Netflix is coming to Cuba.

Lessons From Google’s First Rollout Of Google Fiber

03/30/2015 09:26 AM

In Kansas City startups are growing, cable companies are catching up, but the digital divide is as wide as ever.

Report: Distance Education Is Here to Stay

03/30/2015 09:21 AM

A new survey shows that while not all higher education faculty like distance learning, it has become entrenched and is part of education throughout the nation.

FCC Chairman Backs Strong Net Neutrality Rules

03/30/2015 09:11 AM

Tom Wheeler opts for strict regulation of Internet service providers to maintain an open Internet.

Vying for Funding, Rural Counties Often Lose to Big Cities

03/30/2015 09:07 AM

But a new contest, where the competition is limited to rural areas, offers a chance for smaller municipalities to realize their economic development plans.

A New Year’s Resolution: Using Broadband to Get Healthy and Stay Well

03/30/2015 09:06 AM

It’s that time of year again . . . resolution time. You often hear that people look forward to the New Year for a new start on old habits. From eating better to being more active, we all tend to see the New Year as a way to make a fresh (and healthy) start.

Westmoreland County, Pa., Prison Visitation Goes Digital

03/30/2015 09:05 AM

The visits are conducted by using computer equipment the county purchased last year that allows family members and friends to speak with inmates via video over a home computer hookup.

FCC FINDS U.S. BROADBAND DEPLOYMENT NOT KEEPING PACE

03/30/2015 09:02 AM

Updates Broadband Speed Benchmark to 25Mbps/3 Mbps to Reflect Consumer Demand, Advances in Technology

FCC Redefines Broadband as 25 Mb Per Second or Higher

03/30/2015 08:57 AM

The new definition of broadband does not require Internet service providers to make any changes to the services they provide.

Broadband Illinois Releases Updated Residential Broadband Pricing Study

03/25/2015 04:09 PM

Broadband availability increased statewide, higher speeds and lower prices a result

Broadband Illinois to Host "How to Bring a Gigabit Network to Your City in Illinois"

03/10/2015 03:07 PM

Successful gigabit city officials will discuss their successes and offer advice

A Victory for Everyone Who Uses the Internet

02/27/2015 10:13 AM

The greatest commitment ever made to preserve and protect an open and free Internet

Illinois Telehealth Initiative Launched to Improve Adoption

02/25/2015 09:32 AM

Several hospitals and technology companies have come together to start the Illinois Telehealth Initiative.

Illinois Telehealth Initiative looks to improve, expand virtual care

02/24/2015 01:32 PM

How Partnership for a Connected Illinois is trying to take telehealth statewide

14 Illinois Locations Register to Compete for America's Best Communities’ Title

02/23/2015 02:33 PM

Deadline for applications March 25, 2015

The Illinois Telehealth Initiative Launches to Aid the Country's Projected Physician Shortage

02/23/2015 12:14 PM

Illinois Telehealth Initiative launches, strives to bring telehealth to all residents of Illinois.

ILLINOIS GOVERNOR BRUCE RAUNER ANNOUNCES FORMATION OF NEW INNOVATION COUNCIL DURING VISIT TO 1871

02/23/2015 10:38 AM

Governor Appoints Laura Frerichs and Mark Glennon to Lead New Council Designed to Develop Innovation Clusters, Attract Resources, Develop and Retain Talent, and Foster Collaboration Through the Illinois Technology Community

FCC’S NEW BROADBAND DEFINITION BRINGS FASTER SPEEDS TO iTV-3 CUSTOMERS

02/18/2015 11:19 AM

Local provider iTV-3 announces speed increase at no charge to existing customers

2015 State of the State Addresses: Is Technology on the Agenda?

02/10/2015 11:10 AM

To find technology in this year’s speeches, you often need to read between the lines.

Visualizing the Digital Divide in Chicago [Map]

02/04/2015 03:44 PM

The city of Chicago has launched numerous efforts to elminate the digital divide in every neighborhood

BroadbandUSA Makes Its Debut

02/04/2015 03:34 PM

Learn how the federal initiative will help communities expand access to high-speed Internet service

Businesses: Are you successful because of broadband?

02/04/2015 03:32 PM

AT&T and Connect SI announced an awards program to recognize small businesses in Southern Illinois using broadband as part of its success

Super Bowl ad Promotes Need for Broadband

02/02/2015 10:35 AM

Estella's Brilliant Bus brings technology to children in need

Mayor Emanuel, Chicago Public Library Announce “Internet To Go” Tech Lending Program

01/30/2015 09:34 AM

Pilot Program Allows Residents To Check Out Wi-Fi Hotspots and Tablets

Three U.S. Communities Among 'Top 7 Intelligent Communities of 2015'

01/30/2015 09:32 AM

Arlington County, Va., Columbus, Ohio, and Mitchell, S.D., are considered "the best on the planet to teach us how we should go about planning the future."

Texas prisons try telemedicine to curb spending

01/30/2015 09:31 AM

With healthcare costs rising for Texas inmates, prisons seek ways to cut costs

3 Ways Schools Can Stretch Their Technology Dollars

01/30/2015 09:28 AM

New York City schools take a look at staffing, the type of equipment they purchase and ways to extend the life of technology.

5 Ways Unmanned Drones Could Affect the American Food Supply

01/30/2015 09:26 AM

From herding cattle to applying pesticides, unmanned drones are revolutionizing American farming

Chicago Educators Welcome Proposal to Protect Students' Digital Privacy

01/30/2015 09:20 AM

Some technology requires teachers or students to enter all sorts of data, thus raising the question educators had not faced before: Will information a teacher or child shares stay available in cyberspace?

Report Finds Strong Link Between Broadband and Population Growth

01/30/2015 09:19 AM

U.S. counties with the highest broadband availability levels are seeing the greatest population growth

BroadbandUSA Effort to Assist Communities with Broadband Plans

01/30/2015 09:17 AM

NTIA's BroadbandUSA program will help cities create partnerships, promote adoption, and assist with infrastructure projects

From the Early Adopter’s Dilemma to the Game of Gigs: Building the Information Rich Commons

01/26/2015 03:59 PM

Blair Levin's opening remarks to the Gigabit City Summit

9 Things Computers Can do Now That They Couldn't do a Year Ago

01/21/2015 09:42 AM

2014 had its fair share of "firsts" in hardware, software, and robotics

New Year, New Threats: Electronic Health Record Cyberattacks

01/21/2015 09:39 AM

The recent flood of cyberattacks means that hackers are relentless and more sophisticated than ever before.

State Says 80 Percent of Mainers 'Unserved' by Broadband

01/21/2015 09:38 AM

The ConnectME Authority, which oversees the state’s broadband service, on Friday adopted a new standard to define adequate service levels.

Network Could Put City in Online Fast-Lane

01/21/2015 09:37 AM

Jacksonville in talks to update broadband network, possibly become a gigabit city

State of the Union: Ready for bipartisan cyber action

01/21/2015 09:34 AM

This should be the year that significant bipartisan progress is made on cybersecurity legislation, with new laws set to pass on issues ranging from data breach notification to sharing sensitive cyber intelligence between the public and private sectors. In fact, since President Obama and Republican congressional leaders can't agree on much else, cybersecurity action is moving to center stage.

CES 2015: Robots Can Teach a Kindergartner to Code

01/21/2015 09:33 AM

The robots, Dash and Dot, are designed for kids ages 5 to 12 to work in conjunction with an app to teach the "fundamental ideas of programming."

Research Study Shows NTIA Broadband Grants Provided Billions in Economic Benefits

01/21/2015 09:31 AM

NTIA review of economic impact resulting from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies

FCC Commissioner to Tech Industry: It’s Time to Reinvent Textbooks, Teaching

01/21/2015 09:27 AM

After increasing spending by $1.5 billion on Internet broadband projects for schools FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel asks the tech industry to innovate for education.

The Future of Medicine Is in Your Smartphone

01/21/2015 09:25 AM

New tools are tilting health-care control from doctors to patients

FCC Chairman Wheeler Hints at Shift in Net Neutrality Rules

01/21/2015 09:23 AM

On Wednesday, Wheeler suggested that he would propose rules next month that would treat broadband Internet service providers as utilities subject to more intense regulation than they have been in the past.

Only 25Mbps and up will qualify as broadband under new FCC definition

01/21/2015 09:21 AM

Broadband not being deployed “in a reasonable and timely fashion," Wheeler says.

Obama aims to unleash broadband boost

01/21/2015 09:19 AM

In visit to Iowa, President Obama will push to end laws that limit Internet coverage

The Killer App for Local Fiber Networks

01/21/2015 09:16 AM

For a community fiber network, economic development may be the killer app – the application that validates the use of the platform.

Investment in Digital Health Surges

01/21/2015 09:12 AM

In 2014, investment in digital-health companies grew 93 percent, outpacing that of biotechnology and medical devices.

Apps Everywhere, but No Unifying Link

01/21/2015 09:10 AM

Webpage navigation has been simplified, but now apps need to follow

Broadband coverage strong across rural Illinois

01/21/2015 09:06 AM

Strong broadband coverage across Illinois means more productive farmers

Fantastic Voyage: Tiny Sensors May Soon Monitor Seniors’ Medicines From Inside

01/21/2015 09:04 AM

Ingestible monitoring devices could be the future of healthcare

Year in Review: Making Sense of 2014

01/21/2015 08:57 AM

2014 may not have been the year, but there are definitive signs that we’re pointed in the right direction.

Does Comcast Really Reach Out to Poor People?

01/21/2015 08:54 AM

Big Internet providers provide subsidized service to the most needy population

School Buses add WiFi to Bring Internet to Homes of Poor Students

01/21/2015 08:52 AM

Equally as important to school connectivity, students need to be connected at home

9 Maps that Explained the Internet in 2014

01/21/2015 08:48 AM

From subscription rates to barries to municipal broadband networks, here is a look at the state of all things Internet across the globe

Gigabit or GigaWhat? There is Work to Do Regarding Ultra-Broadband Services

01/21/2015 08:40 AM

Is Gigabit service necessary for most Americans?

Cuomo’s $500m broadband push to start in January

01/21/2015 08:39 AM

New York's Governor announces $500 million broadband expansion program

Ignoring AT&T and Verizon protests, FCC says “broadband” has to be 10Mbps

01/21/2015 08:36 AM

ISPs that accept government subsidies must offer at least 10Mbps instead of 4.

A unified 20-year history of the radically changing way we relate to the Web

01/21/2015 08:35 AM

A brief look at the history and evolution of the Internet

2015 New Year's Resolution: Remove Public Broadband Handcuffs

01/20/2015 04:50 PM

In order for municipal broadband to grow, barriers need removed

Mobile Health Faces a Bumpy Road in Rural California

01/20/2015 04:46 PM

Mobile healthcare faces many struggles-- terrain, education, and poverty

How cheap does the Internet have to be to get everyone online?

01/20/2015 04:43 PM

FCC estimates a 10% increase in adoption with a 15% decrease in cost

FCC Raises E-Rate Cap Despite Opposition

01/20/2015 04:41 PM

The new order went into effect after a 3-2 vote at a meeting on Thursday, Dec. 11, and means that next year, school districts are more likely to receive support for on-campus Internet connections.

Farmers, Ag Tech Providers Strike Big Data Agreement

01/20/2015 04:39 PM

A meticulously negotiated agreement outlines areas of concern that will guide cooperation and evolution over the next four to five years.

What the heck is 5G? The mobile world is just as unsure as we are

01/20/2015 04:37 PM

The future of 4G

$6.4 Billion to be Spent on Civic Tech in 2015, Report Says

01/20/2015 04:35 PM

New analysis says the rise of the civic tech market has grown roots, and its growth with be 14 times faster than traditional government IT spending at the state and local levels.

Americans Feel Better Informed Thanks to the Internet

01/20/2015 04:33 PM

Do you feel the same?

Celebrating Computer Science Education Week, Kids Code at the White House

01/20/2015 04:30 PM

President Obama codes with area students to kick-off computer science education week

Walgreen's App Makes Virtual Doctor Visits a Reality

01/20/2015 04:29 PM

Rather video chat with your doc about what ails you? No problem, says Walgreens.

These IL Schools Made a List of the 50 Most Innovative Computer Science Programs

01/20/2015 04:26 PM

Four Illinois schools made the list

How Chicago is Narrowing the Digital Divide

01/20/2015 04:24 PM

Low-income families, minorities, people with disabilities and seniors are overwhelmingly represented in the broad swath of the city’s population who are unable to gain access to crucial information and resources.

4 Trends to Watch in 2015

01/20/2015 04:22 PM

In the New Year, municipalities will face the challenge of ensuring that their data-driven approaches empower them to be responsive to citizens’ wants, needs and ideas.

FirstNet: Is Opting Out an Option?

01/20/2015 04:21 PM

Myriad factors and unknowns cloud the question for now

High-Tech Farming Poised to Change the Way the World Eats

01/20/2015 04:19 PM

Silicon Valley is pushing its way into every stage of the food-growing process, from tech tycoons buying up farmland to startups selling robots that work the fields.

Internet-Connected Things Will Soon Outnumber People

01/20/2015 04:18 PM

The growing Internet of Things brings new opportunities and challenges.

Technology Bridging Rural Healthcare Gap

01/20/2015 04:16 PM

Area counseling service to offer teleconferencing to reach rural patients.

We Now Spend More Time Staring at Phones Than TVs

01/20/2015 04:14 PM

Big trends indicate that TV viewing time is on the decline, markers look to smartphones

In 2014, the Internet added an entire United States to its User Base

01/20/2015 04:12 PM

Internet users grow to new records

Why the South Lags Behind when it Comes to Home Broadband Use

01/20/2015 04:09 PM

Barriers to adoption include income and education

Wired/Unwired: Madison's Digital Divide is an Issue of Both Access and Skills

01/20/2015 04:06 PM

Multiple barries to adoption increase the digital divide across the United States

Apps are Available for Everything in Agriculture

01/20/2015 04:01 PM

In a world of information technology, apps make it possible to remain in the field when muddled by a unfamiliar disease or insect infestation.

Zeke Flores Named to Crain's 40 Under 40 List

01/20/2015 04:00 PM

PCI Board Member selected as one of Chicago's most influential

How Technology Can Help with Long-Distance Caregiving

01/20/2015 03:57 PM

In-home telemonitoring devices, mobile apps and wearable devices can tell a long-distance caregiver whether a relative has opened the refrigerator, as well as send out medication reminders and monitor someone’s health.

Tennessee Leaders Call on the FCC to Axe State Broadband Restrictions

01/20/2015 03:53 PM

Representatives from state and local government, along with private-sector leaders, rallied on Tuesday in support of a petition to the FCC to vacate state laws that prevent expansion of gigabit Internet connections.

Internet of Things Helps Buffalo, Other Cities with Snow Removal

01/20/2015 03:51 PM

Boston, Minneapolis and Buffalo are some of the municipalities harnessing the power of GPS sensors and machine-to-machine communication to modernize snow removal practices.

Ohio Adds Schools to its First Responder Communication System

01/20/2015 03:50 PM

The system's special school radios include an orange emergency button that, when pressed, connects schools with a local dispatcher. The dispatcher hears what's happening and pages law enforcement and other first responders, who are immediately deployed to the scene.

FCC Receives Almost 200 applicants for Rural Broadband Experiments

01/20/2015 03:48 PM

Applications will now be reviewed and winners announced early 2015

Organizations Call on FCC to Modernize and Expand Federal E-Rate Program

01/20/2015 03:47 PM

Alliance for Excellent Education and LEAD Commission Release Analysis Finding Racial, Income, and Rural Inequities in Students’ Access to High-Speed Internet Service

How Illinois Counties Overcame the Barriers to Next-Gen 911

01/20/2015 03:44 PM

Policy and legal issues prove more challenging than technological ones but southern Illinois counties prevail.

Pay Phones in New York City Will Become Free Wi-Fi Hot Spots

01/20/2015 03:42 PM

Pay phone network will be one of the biggest in the world

About 700,000 add Broadband in the Third Quarter of 2014

01/20/2015 03:38 PM

86.6 Million Get Broadband from Top Cable and Telephone Companies

Ambulance Drones May Save Lives

01/20/2015 03:35 PM

Will heart attack victims one day see their savior fly in on four small propellers?

2014 Digital Cities: Winners Focus on Innovation, Boosting Transparency and Privacy

01/20/2015 03:34 PM

In this year's Digital Cities Survey, top cities recognize the value of technology, empower their tech leaders and use new ideas to make life better for everyone who lives there.

The Broadband Health Imperative

01/20/2015 03:30 PM

A look at the intersection of healthcare and the FCC

Shooter Detection Systems: Coming to a School Near You?

01/20/2015 03:28 PM

The new active shooter detection is system designed to provide real-time information on the location of shots fired inside a building, and cut critical minutes off police response times.

What if your wearable could stop bad habits in their tracks?

01/20/2015 03:26 PM

Wearable sensors will know before you know that you are at risk of relapse

In Detroit and other cities, nearly 40 percent go without Internet

01/20/2015 03:18 PM

Many people can't afford Internet service and even lack mobile broadband.

Can Technology Improve Policing?

01/20/2015 03:15 PM

New survey results show that citizens want more technology in the hands of law enforcement.

In Quinn, tech found one of its strongest allies

01/20/2015 03:14 PM

Former Gov. Pat Quinn was the tech industry's biggest ally.

Area schools’ technology programs nationally recognized

01/20/2015 03:13 PM

New Berlin High School teachers Kaitlan Dinges and Sarah Beard instruct a joint class in the nationally-recognized Project Lead the Way program

Broadband Expands Into Rural America, But How Many Will Adopt?

01/20/2015 03:08 PM

High-speed Internet is finally starting to reach the nation’s most remote areas. Many residents, though, are slow to adopt it.

Possible 'hybrid' Net neutrality rules get chilly reception

01/20/2015 03:06 PM

A recap of the FCC's proposed hybrid plan for net neutrality

Will Education Ever Keep Up with Technology?

01/20/2015 03:02 PM

People are both driving technological changes and needing more help because of these changes, and according to one panelist at a recent Georgia event, teachers will never catch up; they should become facilitators of knowledge.

President Obama Announces Plans for Next-Generation Broadband Connectivity

01/15/2015 11:13 AM

Announcement means better connectivity and less red-tape for Illinois and the United States

Broadband Illinois Welcomes Governor Bruce Rauner

01/15/2015 10:22 AM

PCI participates in inauguration activities

The Year of Community and Municipal Gigabit Broadband

01/05/2015 03:12 PM

Former PCI executive director, Drew Clark, reflects on broadband in 2014 and touts PCI's accomplishments.

High Tech Coming to Highland

12/18/2014 02:22 PM

Squarefruit Labs, maker of next generation 3-D printers, wins
$15,000 Highland Gigabit Challenge

Frontier Communications Helps Propel Carbondale into Gigabit City Status

12/10/2014 03:42 PM

Frontier announces Carbondale as a Gigabit City, High speed internet over 50 times faster

Will Illinois' New Laws Streamline Procurement?

12/01/2014 11:46 AM

Illinois is in the midst of modernizing its purchasing rules to help better communicate with vendors and encourage cloud adoption in state agencies.

How Nebraska Built a Network with the Lowest Internet Costs

12/01/2014 11:44 AM

A multi-year effort to build a statewide network has resulted in a service that has not only lowered internet costs, but has increased bandwidth, improving the ability for schools to share educational courses across the state.

Governor Quinn Announces Coyote Logistics to Expand in Illinois, Create 500 New Jobs

12/01/2014 11:41 AM

Chicago- based Coyote Logistics to expand and contribute to Illinois' job growth.

Chicago-area voting machine casts Republican candidate’s vote for Democratic foe

12/01/2014 11:39 AM

Voting machine error casts vote for Republican candidate's foe.

Governor Quinn, Senator Durbin and Amazon Announce 1,000 Full-Time Jobs in Illinois Amazon Plans $75 Million Investment in Heart of the Midwest

12/01/2014 11:36 AM

Governor Pat Quinn, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and Amazon.com Inc. today announced plans to create more than 1,000 full-time jobs and $75 million in investment in Illinois. Amazon is beginning site selection activities and it plans to open its first facility in Illinois next year.

Chicago Transit Authority Tests Controversial Sensor Technology

12/01/2014 11:33 AM

The agency is looking at how the technology can be used to give riders tracking information. But one digital privacy expert is calling the beacons a "massive invasion of privacy."

Digital divide exacerbates US inequality

12/01/2014 11:07 AM

About 67 per cent of households in rural areas have broadband internet service, compared to 75 per cent of urban households.

Attendees at Connect Michigan Conference Want Rural High-Speed Broadband

12/01/2014 11:03 AM

PCI's Broadband Infrastructure Catalyst, Jay Roberts, attended the Connect Michigan Conference.

WISPAPALOOZA 2014 Breaks Attendance Record

12/01/2014 10:19 AM

WISPAPALOOZA 2014 Breaks Attendance Record and PCI's own Brian Webster wins award

Sesame Workshop Tackles Literacy With Technology

12/01/2014 10:14 AM

Elmo and friends tackle digital literacy.

The UnDigital Nation: NTIA Finds Persistent Gaps in Home Internet Use

12/01/2014 10:07 AM

A recent NTIA report found that despite recent home Internet adoption, persistant gaps still exist.

Getting to a gig: Why cities need high-speed broadband now

12/01/2014 10:04 AM

Two mayors of gigabit cities discuss the need to gig speeds.

Illinois' Share of High-Tech Businesses is Among the Nation's Top States

12/01/2014 10:00 AM

With almost 400,000 businesses and an employeee base of more than 5.7 million, Illinois leads the Midwest in volume of both companies and jobs.

iTV-3 ANNOUNCES CONSTRUCTION OF GIGABIT FIBER-OPTIC BROADBAND IN URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

12/01/2014 09:28 AM

The first Urbana-Champaign residents will soon be connected to some of the fastest Internet speeds in the country. Local broadband provider iTV-3 today announced construction and expansion of the Urbana-Champaign Big Broadband (UC2B) network.

Leveraging Economic Incentives for Start-ups: 1871 Panel

11/06/2014 12:35 PM

Highlights of the Leveraging Economic Incentives for Start-ups Panel at 1871

Frontier Communications Completes Network Improvement Bringing more network reliability and faster speeds to Monmouth Area

10/27/2014 03:52 PM

Monmouth IL sees improved speeds and reliability as Frontier completes infrastructure network

Frontier Communications Completes Network Improvement Bringing more network reliability and faster speeds to Carthage Area

10/27/2014 03:48 PM

Carthage IL sees improved speeds and reliability as Frontier completes infrastructure network

USDA Announces Funding for Rural Broadband and Telecommunications Infrastructure

10/27/2014 11:32 AM

USDA announces $190.5 million in funding for rural broadband infrastructure projects and improvements.

LaSalle County event highlights iFiber network

10/20/2014 09:55 AM

Press release: iFiber recognizes completion of high-speed broadband network in LaSalle County and surrounding regions.

Chicago Innovation Exchange opens at the University of Chicago

10/20/2014 09:48 AM

New hub receives $1 million grant from state of Illinois, unveils public health pilot program with city of Chicago

The Top 10 IT Issues in Higher Ed for 2015

10/17/2014 09:54 AM

University technology leaders sound off on the issues they will face next year -- issues that highlight three major trends.

Marriott fined $600,000 by FCC for blocking guests' Wi-Fi

10/17/2014 09:51 AM

Mariott hotels fined for jamming guests personal wi-fi signals

Maybe the Internet Isn’t Killing Newspapers After All

10/17/2014 09:47 AM

Newspaper readership has been falling for decades—long before today’s online journalists were born, and even before some of their parents were born.

Law Enforcement Agencies Turn to Technology to Ease Distractions

10/17/2014 09:44 AM

A consolidated system allows officers to use hand pads similar to joysticks that can be programmed to activate a car’s radio, lights, siren and public address system — often without having to take their eyes off the road

HIGHLAND, IL OFFERS TECH STARTUPS CHANCE TO WIN BIG

10/17/2014 09:41 AM

Highland, IL is offering over $40,000 in cash and prizes to tech-startups.

Missouri Shares Data with Healthy Results

10/17/2014 09:38 AM

After 10 years of inter-agency data sharing, state officials say they've finally cracked the code, saving millions and improving the health of the mentally ill.

Arizona State University, Starbucks Partner for Online Higher Education

10/17/2014 09:34 AM

Colleges can't continue doing the same thing they have been for years if they want to help more students graduate. And one university is thinking outside the box.

What to Do with a Gig? Applications for Hyperfast Gigabit Internet

10/17/2014 09:31 AM

A recent study imagines the ways hyperfast online connections will begin to transform everyday life, enabling new technologies while rendering contemporary ways of life obsolete.

AT&T Gigabit Markets to Include Chicago and Atlanta

10/17/2014 09:26 AM

AT&T announces Chicago will be one of its many Gigabit Cities

Days from 114th birthday, MN woman gets tech savvy

10/17/2014 09:24 AM

You're never too old for technology!

John Deere Makes an Economic Case for Rural Broadband Expansion

10/17/2014 09:18 AM

Farmers are getting more tech-savvy and using precision agriculture to increase yeilds.

Broadband in America: Improving Speeds & Access

10/17/2014 09:13 AM

Demand for faster broadband is growing, and the marketplace is responding to this demand.

10th and Final NTIA Data Submission Complete

10/08/2014 03:36 PM

National Broadband Map data submission completed, maps updated over coming months

WIRELINE COMPETITION BUREAU ANNOUNCES FURTHER DETAILS REGARDING THE RURAL BROADBAND EXPERIMENTS

09/30/2014 09:13 AM

FCC announces deadline for Rural Broadband Experiments extended.

FCC Announces Extended Filing Deadline for Rural Broadband Experiments and Other Information for Applicants

09/29/2014 12:18 PM

The FCC has extended the deadline for Rural Broadband Experiments.

Digital Media & Learning- The Trust Challenge Competition

09/29/2014 12:16 PM

The Digital Media & Learning Trust Competition is offering $1.2M in awards to projects that address issues of trust in connected learning environments.

Google Balloons Take Flight In Vast Remote Broadband Launch

09/29/2014 12:13 PM

Google is on track to launch balloons to provide broadband service to remote areas in 2015.

The Changing Landscape of Innovation in Illinois (SSTI Conference Guest Blog Post)

09/29/2014 12:10 PM

John Flavin, Executive Director of the Chicago Innovation Exchange, offers insight on how and why the Illinois economy will continue to grow over the next few years.

iOS 8 Users Report Slow Wi-Fi, Battery Drains

09/29/2014 12:07 PM

Those with iOS 8 devices are reporting Wi-Fi sluggishness and battery-drain issues.

New Voter Registration App for Indiana Residents

09/29/2014 12:05 PM

The IndianaVoters App enables users to register to vote or confirm their voter registration, find their polling place, look up candidates on their ballot, track their absentee ballot and contact local elected officials.

Jesse White to focus on Technology and Highway Safety if re-elected

09/18/2014 03:53 PM

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White detailed his focus in a meeting the State Journal Register staff.

Illinois Science & Technology Coalition releases 'Illinois Science and Technology Roadmap'

09/18/2014 03:47 PM

The Illinois Science and Technology Roadmap uses a unique data and analysis approach to identify technology areas where Illinois’ innovation strengths can improve business competitiveness across the state’s diverse industry base.

3.7 Million Comments Later, Here's Where Net Neutrality Stands

09/18/2014 02:47 PM

FCC to review 3.7M comments on net neutrality before moving forward.

Kids Need to Learn Digital Literacy-- Not How to Code

09/18/2014 01:58 PM

Using technology is about way more than code.

The Internet of Everything

09/18/2014 01:48 PM

The "Internet of Everything" is making our lives much easier.

Frontier Communications, DISH team up to support revitalization of small cities with America’s Best Communities Contest

09/18/2014 09:07 AM

More than $10 million dedicated to support innovation and growth in 50 rural communities over three years. Frontier, DISH challenge communities across America to submit and implement their best plans for future growth and prosperity. Unique financial rewards, support network for small communities to collaborate, initiate change for long-term sustainability.

Wi-Fi In The Classroom Has To Be A National Priority

09/11/2014 02:35 PM

High-speed Internet access has become akin to electricity and phone service in businesses, government agencies, hospitals, universities and a growing array of other places where we live and work.

GIS will become the ‘hero’ of 911, says APCO panelist

09/11/2014 02:34 PM

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) may serve a minor role in legacy 911 systems, but it will be an integral part of next-generation system. The sooner 911 professionals realize this and start preparing, the smoother their transition to next-generation 911 will be, according to panelists at the recent APCO conference.

What Apple's Big Announcement Means for Government

09/11/2014 02:32 PM

Larger iPhones, Apple Pay and the Apple Watch will all impact the public sector.

Best Buy Foundation Accepting Applications for National Youth Technology Program

09/11/2014 02:29 PM

Deadline: November 1, 2014

Everything connected to the Internet, in one map

09/11/2014 02:11 PM

An image of all devices connected to the Internet, worldwide.

How McDonald's and Corporate America are Bringing Internet Access to Rural America

09/11/2014 02:06 PM

How McDonald's is bringing Internet to Rural America

F.C.C. to Promote Choices for High-Speed Broadband

09/11/2014 02:01 PM

Americans lack real choices among providers of high-speed Internet service, FCC Chairman says.

Commission Publishes Additional Resources Regarding Areas Potentially Eligible for Connect America Funding

09/08/2014 03:26 PM

Additional information now available for Connect America Funding.

Illinois a Leader in Broadband Internet Coverage

09/03/2014 09:02 AM

Changes may be coming as feds weigh greater regulation

How to Apply for Rural Broadband Experiments

08/29/2014 03:13 PM

On Thursday, August 28th, the Rural Broadband Policy Group and the National Rural Assembly hosted a webinar featuring Jonathan Chambers from the Office of Strategic Policy and Analysis and Carol Mattey from the Wireline Competition Bureau, to learn about the rules and process to apply for the Rural Broadband Experiments.

Guns, butter and broadband: How technology has finally emerged as a viable campaign issue

08/29/2014 10:44 AM

Political candidates have used digital technology since the dawn of the Internet, now it's time they discuss it.

Exports growing in Illinois’ high-tech sectors

08/27/2014 04:15 PM

From 2009 to 2013, goods exports in Illinois have increased 58.8 percent, outpacing the national average of 49.6 percent over the same period.

Simon welcomes Class of 2025 back to Bloomington Junior High School

08/26/2014 12:44 PM

Bloomington Junior High offers one-on-one laptop program to all students and internet service to low income students.

Kids and Technology: Can We Ever Really Keep Up?

08/26/2014 11:39 AM

How can parents stay involved with their kids online if parents are being left behind by today's technology?

Study: Broadband Boosts Rural Jobs, Income

08/26/2014 11:22 AM

Study finds benefits of broadband in rural communities, increased jobs and income.

Rural Economies Found to Benefit from Broadband

08/26/2014 11:19 AM

Study shows rural communities benefit from broadband, increased income and jobs.

Despite the Latest Creaks, the Internet Isn’t Close to Breaking

08/26/2014 10:39 AM

The complexity of the Internet is overwhelming some older routers, but these systems can easily be upgraded.

Report Ranks Top Open Data States

08/19/2014 02:51 PM

Six states earn top rankings for their open data policies and portals -- and eight states are at the bottom.

AT&T Incubates Technology to Connect Devices

08/19/2014 02:44 PM

AT&T is developing technology that allows users to receive calls and messages via smart devices.

Dorm Wi-Fi a Selling Point for Many Universities

08/19/2014 02:38 PM

Colleges and universities fit dorms with new wireless networks in bid to attract students.

20 Things Educators Need To Know About Digital Literacy Skills

08/19/2014 01:58 PM

Teaching digital literacy is about more than just integrating technology into lesson plans; it’s about using technology to understand and enhance modern communication, to locate oneself in digital space, to manage knowledge and experience in the Age of Information.

Frontier Communications Expands Broadband Internet Service in Champaign, Ford and Vermilion Counties Network Expansion Brings Additional Connectivity

08/14/2014 12:17 PM

Frontier Communications has made advanced broadband technology and faster Internet speeds available to hundreds of additional residences and businesses throughout Illinois.

Illinois sees substantial growth in residential broadband connection

08/11/2014 02:34 PM

New data from the FCC reports that total broadband connections nationwide grew at a compound annual growth rate of 15 percent from June 2003 to June 2013.

Illinois beats U.S., lags neighbors in tech job gains

08/11/2014 01:54 PM

Illinois outpaced the nation in tech-job growth last year, but several of our neighboring states grew faster.

States Watching Congress on Internet Access Taxes

08/11/2014 11:32 AM

Congress is debating whether to extend or make permanent a moratorium on state and local Internet access taxes. The issue could get tied up with a controversial proposal to tax online sales.

Do Google Chromebooks Threaten Apple’s Dominance in Education?

08/11/2014 11:28 AM

Schools that have purchased Chromebooks versus iPads point to low cost and minimal maintenance requirements as the primary selling points.

Agricultural Tech Links iPads, Tractors

08/11/2014 11:07 AM

Illinois tech firm brings technology to farming-- collecting and reporting data ranging from field productivity to a tractor’s levels of fuel, oil and coolant.

Depression, Seniors and the Internet

08/11/2014 11:00 AM

A six-year study found that retired adults over 50 who regularly use the Internet were 33 percent less likely to be depressed than those who never spent time on the Web.

Comcast Offers Up To Six Months of Complimentary Internet Service And An Amnesty Program For Low-Income Families

08/06/2014 11:55 AM

Internet Essential Kicks Off Back to School Season in Georgia with Nationwide, Complimentary
Six-Month Offer, Discounted Computers and Free Digital Literacy Training for Eligible Families.

Comcast Has Now Connected More Than 1.4 Million Low-Income Americans to Internet at Home.

Governor Quinn Announces Completion of Cutting Edge Broadband Network

08/06/2014 11:31 AM

Gov. Quinn announced completion of a nearly $100 million, four-year project to install more than 1,000 new miles of high-speed fiber-optic broadband infrastructure across 55 Illinois counties.

Iowa School District Adds Wi-Fi to Buses

08/06/2014 10:42 AM

Cardinal Community School District officials say the goal is to transform school buses into locations for learning, by adding wireless Internet and bringing focus to educational apps.

U.S. FCC asks if Broadband Should Mean Faster Internet Speeds

08/06/2014 10:28 AM

New FCC proposal would change how it measures high-speed Internet and require speeds of at least 10 Mbps to qualify as broadband.

Cook County Helps Close Digital Divide for Low-Income Families

08/05/2014 03:52 PM

Comcast announces expansion of a new program, “Internet Essentials Learning Lab,” to help close the digital divide in Cook County.

How the History of Electricity Explains Municipal Broadband

08/05/2014 03:47 PM

Should the FCC try to preempt state laws that block cities from building out publicly owned Internet infrastructure?

White House Innovation Day Highlights Disaster Response, Recovery

08/05/2014 03:43 PM

Emergency managers converged with the tech community to discuss tools that can create more resilient communities.

In Partisan Vote, FCC Passes a Modified E-Rate Proposal for Spending Funds on Wi-Fi Connectivity

08/05/2014 03:39 PM

The FCC voted to modernize of its E-Rate program Friday, reallocating funds from technologies considered obsolete to Wi-Fi based connectivity in schools and libraries.

Big Data Fueling Iowa Farmers' Productivity

08/05/2014 03:34 PM

Drones flying over farm fields recording high resolution images & field sensors providing real-time information on crops are among the tech tools likely to be commonplace in an era of big ag data.

Experts Discuss 4 Major Barriers to Telehealth Adoption

08/05/2014 03:31 PM

While technology has reached a level where high-quality virtual consultations with physicians can take place, policy issues have slowed the expansion of telehealth practices in the U.S.

FCC Prepares to Vote on E-Rate Overhaul

08/05/2014 03:27 PM

Schools and libraries hungry for faster and more reliably funded Wi-Fi connections will be watching the July 11 open meeting of the Federal Communications Commission closely.

Ag Leader Technology Meets Dirt in Illinois

08/05/2014 02:42 PM

Blog post from Leah Guffey at AgWired- The Technology Meets Dirt Road Tour is showing off the latest precision technology by visiting Illinois farms this summer.

The State of U.S. Broadband: Is It Competitive? Are We Falling Behind?

08/05/2014 02:31 PM

Advocates for new regulation of the U.S. broadband Internet base their case on the related contentions that (i) our nation lags behind the rest of the world in quality, price, and deployment of broadband, and (ii) the market for U.S. broadband service is not competitive.

The State of U.S. Broadband: Is It Competitive? Are We Falling Behind?

08/05/2014 02:29 PM

New Threats to Liberty Online

07/07/2014 09:24 AM

Experts say liberty online is challenged by nation-state crackdowns, surveillance, pressures of commercialization of the Internet.

Broadband Manufacturing Comes To Chicago’s South Suburbs

06/26/2014 09:53 AM

Triton Manufacturing and Connectivity Resources Incorporated have entered into an agreement to manufacture, assemble, market and sell passive connectivity products used in broadband networks.

Frontier Communications’ 3 Year Investment in Illinois Tops $211 million

05/02/2014 02:27 PM

Frontier Communications announced the company’s three year investment to advance high speed internet service in Illinois surpassed $211 million including $72.2 million in 2013

Illinois County Magazine Features Broadband Illinois

04/08/2014 02:27 PM

Volume One, Issue One of the new "Illinois County" Magazine published by the Illinois Association of County Board Members and Commissioners features Broadband Illinois...

Chicago Gigabit Challenge Takes Big Step Forward

02/13/2014 01:01 PM

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Monday announced that his office has issued a request for qualifications from potential vendors in a plan to bring affordable gigabit-speed service to seven designated “innovation zones” around the city.

Event Marks Completion of iFiber Broadband Project

02/06/2014 02:09 PM

Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2014, at 3 p.m.
Rock Valley College Atrium
in the Student Center, 301 N. Mulford Rd, Rockford.

Dr. John L. Lewis, Board Chairman of the Illinois Fiber Resources Group (iFiber), and others associated with the project will give brief remarks.

PCI Releases 2013 Annual Report

01/31/2014 02:18 PM

It was another active and productive year for Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) in 2013, as efforts to expand high-speed Internet access, fuel economic development and bridge the digital divide continued throughout Illinois.

West Central eTeam Meeting, Tech Summit, Highlight Advancement in Region

01/31/2014 10:21 AM

The third annual Western Illinois Technology Summit last Thursday in Carthage served as an opportunity for the Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) West Central eTeam to reflect on successes and look ahead to future and current opportunities.

Western Illinois Technology Summit Scheduled for Jan. 23

01/16/2014 11:28 AM

Western Illinois Technology Services Inc. will host a third annual technology summit on Thursday, Jan. 23, at Sullivan & Son Auction, just south of Carthage on Highway 336.

Monticello Issues RFP for Fiber Network Operator

12/16/2013 09:33 AM

An intergovernmental consortium which includes Piatt County, the City of Monticello, the Monticello CUSD #25, and the Allerton Library owns a fiber-optic backbone structure that provides high speed connectivity to the four government entities.

Frontier to Receive $1.6 Million in Funding for Illinois From FCC Connect America Fund

12/16/2013 08:49 AM

BLOOMINGTON, Ill., Dec. 13, 2013 – Frontier Communications (NASDAQ: FTR) announced today that $1.6 million will be available from the Federal Communication Commission’s Connect America Fund (CAF) to continue the build-out of its broadband network in Illinois.

East Central Illinois Broadband Summit Held in Mattoon

12/10/2013 10:57 AM

More than 60 broadband internet providers, stakeholders and economic development officials convened in Mattoon on Thursday for the 4th annual East Central Illinois Broadband Summit.

Provider Spotlight: Network Business Systems, Inc

12/04/2013 08:59 AM

1. Tell us about your business. What inspired you to start your business? How is your business successful? What makes it unique? ----NBS is a full service WISP, starting in business as a software designer and consultant in 1991. We started the WISP in 1999 due to the lack of high speed internet in our rural area, and since have acquired either completely or partially 7 smaller WISPS and one webhosting company. We employ 9 full time employees, have a network of 80 water towers, grain legs, private and commercial towers covering 18 counties. We serve over 1600 residential and commercial users, including several public schools.

Provider Spotlight: Mediacom

12/02/2013 08:14 PM

For over 15 years, Mediacom, the nation’s 7th largest cable provider has built a successful track record as the local provider of choice for consumers seeking the fastest Internet service, value-added phone service and cable TV with the most free HD channels.

Lifeline Partner Spotlight: Citizen's Utility Board

11/19/2013 08:57 AM

The Citizens Utility Board, or CUB, is Illinois’ premier consumer advocate for the Land of Lincoln’s telecom, natural gas, and electricity customers. CUB, an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit group, was created by the Illinois Legislature to advocate for consumers and offer them free services across Illinois—from Chicago to Cairo.

Halstead, Staff Address Illinois Delegates at BBC Breakfast

11/08/2013 11:42 AM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) convened nearly 100 of the state’s top stakeholders, government officials and providers for breakfast amid the Broadband Communities economic development conference in Tinley Park on Wednesday.

Illinois-based Highlights, Initiatives at Next Week's Broadband Communities Economic Development Conference

11/01/2013 02:41 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Nov. 1, 2013 -- Illinois will be well-represented at the Broadband Communities Regional Economic Development conference series next week in Tinley Park. See below for Illinois-specific program highlights!

Halstead Named Executive Director of Partnership for a Connected Illinois

10/31/2013 03:33 PM

Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) announced this week that Phillip Halstead has been named the organization’s executive director.

State of Illinois, Manufacturers and Educators Join Forces to Help Veterans Get Skills for Careers in Advanced Manufacturing

10/18/2013 02:09 PM

GE, the State of Illinois, The Manufacturing Institute, Illinois Manufacturers' Association and Harper College today announced Illinois as the first state to join the Get Skills to Work (GSTW) coalition. The coalition brings together employers, industry leaders, educators and the public sector to help veterans get the skills they need for careers in advanced manufacturing.

Annual Regional Broadband Summit in East Central Illinois Set

10/18/2013 11:08 AM

New developments that may benefit your community, business, school or organization, will be highlighted at the 4th Annual East Central Illinois Broadband Summit. The event will be Thursday, Dec. 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Education Center of Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System, Mattoon.

Pavlov Media to Offer 10gbps Connection at Champaign Apartments

10/16/2013 01:34 PM

CHAMPAIGN, IL— JSM, the leading student apartment and property development company in Champaign, announces it will feature an astonishing 10 gigabit (Gbps) internet connection, equivalent to 10,000 megabits-per-second (Mbps), at their Green Street Towers property, a luxury seven-story student apartment complex serving students attending the University of Illinois. This internet service will make Green Street Towers the fastest student apartment complex in the country.

Frontier Increases Speeds For Customers in Northern, Central Illinois towns

10/16/2013 10:37 AM

Frontier Communications has increased internet speeds available to hundreds of additional residences and businesses in the communities of Machesney Park, Roscoe and Winnebago.

Webinar: The Chicago Southland Story and other Illinois Fiber Projects

10/15/2013 02:58 PM

The Chicago Southland Story and other Illinois Fiber Projects were the focus of discussion at a webinar hosted by Broadband Illinois and Broadband Communities Magazine on Wednesday.

Provider Spotlight: Metro Communications Company

10/08/2013 11:07 PM

Zachary Horn, President of Metro Communications Company, is working to expand their network throughout East Central Illinois and shared information on some of the company’s innovative updates and expansions in the following interview.

Technology Innovation Summit 2013 to host thought leaders in information technology at annual event

10/07/2013 03:46 PM

(CHICAGO) - - One of the highlights of National Women’s Small Business Month is Technology Innovation Summit 2013 (TIS-2013) “Sustaining Main Street Through Innovation” set for this Thursday at the Aon Center (Second Floor), 200 E. Randolph, 8 a.m. - noon. The event is being organized in collaboration with experts in the fields of technology, innovation, leadership and community development. Speakers for the Summit are some of the most recognized thought leaders in the field of information technology.Additionally, former Chicago Bull Bill Cartwright, chairman of Park Ridge-based background investigation company Cartwright Downes Inc., will be a part of this year’s event.

Upcoming Webinar to Spotlight Chicago Southland Network and Other Illinois Fiber Projects

10/07/2013 01:47 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Oct. 2, 2013 -- Successful broadband fiber-optic initiatives in Illinois, including the Chicago Southland Project, will be topics of discussion at a pre-conference webinar hosted by Broadband Illinois and Broadband Communities Magazine on Oct. 9, 2013 at 1 p.m

Laura Lane Named Chicagoland eTeam Leader

10/02/2013 02:53 PM

Partnership for a Connected Illinois leaders have named Laura Lane, a well-known personality in Chicagoland’s technology community, the organization’s new eTeam leader for that area.

Champaign Parents "DeMystify the Computer" in Digital Literacy Workshop

09/27/2013 10:59 AM

CHAMPAIGN, Illinois, Sept. 27, 2013 -- Parents and guardians of elementary students in Champaign are “Demystifying the Computer” in a free digital literacy workshop this week.

Pavlov Media Expands Chicago Colocation Facility to 10 Gigabit Capability

09/27/2013 09:35 AM

Champaign, IL - Pavlov Media announces the company’s Chicago Colocation facility is now fully 10Gigabit capable. The expansion from one Gigabit to 10 Gigabit capability means the company is able to offer Gigabit (1,000)Mbps and higher speeds across a broader range of the nation.

Webinar: Highlighting Successful Midwestern Broadband Fiber Projects

09/19/2013 02:20 PM

Successful fiber initiatives in the midwest and specifically Illinois will be topics of discussion at two webinars hosted by Broadband Illinois and Broadband Communities Magazine. This is the first of the two.

East Central Illinois Website Offers Trove of Local Events, Maps

09/19/2013 10:27 AM

A website in east central Illinois is creating buzz about local public events and entertainment.

Mayor Emanuel, Comcast Announce Chicago's Internet Essentials Enrollment

09/17/2013 10:31 AM

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Comcast Executive Vice President David L. Cohen and United Way of Metropolitan Chicago President and CEO Wendy DuBoe, along with civic and community leaders, today kicked off the third year of the Comcast Internet Essentials program. Through this program, the number of low-income Chicago families who now have broadband connection at home doubled to 14,000 as part of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption initiative for low-income families. The partnership also established “Internet Essentials Learning Zones,” which brings community based organizations together to eliminate the digital divide.

Broadband Communities Conference Agenda, Speakers, Webinar Details Released

09/12/2013 08:09 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Sept. 12, 2013 -- Successful fiber initiatives in the midwest and specifically Illinois will be topics of discussion at two upcoming webinars hosted by Broadband Illinois and Broadband Communities Magazine.

Upcoming Webinars To Feature Midwest and Illinois Fiber Projects

09/04/2013 02:06 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Sept. 4, 2013 -- Broadband enthusiasts are invited to save the date and register for two upcoming webinars on Midwest and Illinois fiber projects, hosted by Broadband Illinois and Broadband Communities Magazine.

SeniorLink in Belleville Offers Computer Classes

09/04/2013 10:44 AM

Seniors in Belleville have a place to go to learn just about anything they need to know when it comes to computers and the internet.

Gov. Quinn Awards $1.5 Million to Carbondale Area as Part of Gigabit Communities Challenge

08/26/2013 05:26 PM

Gov. Pat Quinn announced on Friday that the Carbondale area will receive a $1.5 million boost to build an ultra high-speed broadband infrastructure.

Provider Spotlight: iTV-3 Expanding Fiber to the Home Service in Central Illinois

08/22/2013 03:55 PM

It’s no secret that the rising popularity in home video streaming has taken a piece of the home entertainment pie from video retail stores. But Family Video, a central Illinois based video rental chain, isn’t fighting the tides of technology – it’s embracing it.

AT&T Invests Nearly $625 Million in Illinois Wireless and Wireline Networks

08/13/2013 01:31 PM

In the first half of 2013, AT&T invested nearly $625 million in its wireless and wired networks in Illinois. The investments included deployment of new macro cell sites, small cells and Distributed Antenna Systems across the state as a part of AT&T’s Project Velocity IP, a three-year investment plan announced last fall to expand and enhance its IP broadband networks. The company also expanded and enhanced its 4G LTE** network, which provides ultra-fast mobile Internet speeds, and deployed new Wi-Fi hot spots.

PCI Seeking Candidates for New Executive Director

08/08/2013 01:34 PM

Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI), the state’s broadband initiative, is searching for a new executive director to lead the nonprofit high-speed internet advocacy group into the future.

Macomb Food Co-op Launches Online Marketplace

08/08/2013 10:49 AM

The Macomb Food Co-op plans to soon offer locally produced meats, eggs, and produce through an on-line market.

“We will be offering this service in September, hopefully. It takes six to eight weeks to get the whole system up and running,” said Jean Davenport, Macomb Food Co-op Outreach Coordinator and Americorps VISTA Volunteer through the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs.

UC2B Network Set To Create New Nonprofit Agency, Expand Community Buildout

08/01/2013 10:11 AM

CHAMPAIGN, Illinois, July 30, 2013 -- Planned changes in the Urbana-Champaign Big Broadband network (UC2B) will allow for expansion to more homes and lessen the potential burden on local taxpayers, according to city and university representatives.

Thomasboro residents turn out to hear about new broadband offerings

07/31/2013 11:24 AM

THOMASBORO — Volo Broadband hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and public demonstration for its Digital Water fiber broadband services Saturday afternoon at Thomasboro Fire Stations

USDA Rural Development Offers Information on Statewide Grant Opportunities

07/30/2013 12:09 PM

Representatives from USDA Rural Development on Wednesday convened a round-table discussion to spread the word about various broadband and telecommunication grant opportunities.

Drew Clark to Step Down as Broadband Illinois Executive Director, Housewright Named Interim

07/26/2013 10:59 AM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois announced today that Drew Clark, Executive Director of the non-profit State Broadband Initiative entity in the Land of Lincoln for the past three and a half years, will resign effective August 1, 2013.

FirstNet Discussed at First Alcatel-Lucent Public Safety Seminar

07/22/2013 04:37 PM

Alcatel-Lucent on Thursday held the first in a series of seminars to help educate providers, partners and stakeholders on FirstNet, NTIA’s nationwide campaign to improve communication technology for public safety services.

Rural Illinois Clinic Starts Telepractice Program, Offers Community Services

07/17/2013 10:33 AM

NEWTON, Illinois, July 17, 2013 -- Children with special needs in Southeast Central Illinois now have access to better care thanks to a high-speed internet connection and an innovative speech language pathologist.

Eureka College Upgrading Internet Connection

07/15/2013 09:25 PM

EUREKA — When Eureka College students return to campus in August, they’ll find broadband Internet as they start to hit the books.

Southland Fiber-Optic Project Moves Ahead

07/15/2013 09:17 PM

Faster communication and more bandwidth that could benefit Southland communities, schools and libraries are envisioned as the next phase of fiber-optic cable installation gets under way.

Alcatel-Lucent Events to Explore FirstNet, Cloud Technology

07/11/2013 12:23 PM

FirstNet and the transition into what’s being called the Personal Cloud Era is the focus of two events led by Alcatel-Lucent July 17 and 18 in Naperville.

New Broadband Illinois Report Examines High-Speed Pricing Across State

07/10/2013 01:32 PM

A new report from Broadband Illinois sheds new light on how prices of residential broadband vary across different speed tiers and geographic locations through Illinois. The 37-page report analyzes the pricing for various broadband speed options and subscription plans across Illinois during the May 2013 timeframe.

Discount Extended for Broadband Communities Conference in Chicagoland

07/09/2013 12:46 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, July 9, 2013 – Time is running out to save on registration costs for the upcoming Broadband Communities Economic Development Regional Conference in Chicagoland on November 5-7, 2013.

Broadband Illinois Launches New Regional Website for Communities, Stakeholders

07/08/2013 12:15 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, July 8, 2013 -- Regional updates on the latest broadband news, events, maps and demographic information are all part of a revamped website, announced today by Broadband Illinois.

Newsletter: Broadband Communities Comes to Chicagoland, IllinoisWiFi App, more

07/08/2013 11:29 AM

Broadband Illinois newsletter for Monday, July 8

IllinoisWiFi App to be Discussed at Digital Advocacy Webinar

07/03/2013 10:38 AM

Details on a new Broadband Illinois mobile application that will help users locate public Wi-Fi hotspots in Illinois will be divulged for the first time during a webinar Tuesday.

US Ignite Summit Demos Next-Gen Applications, Convenes Tech and Community Leaders

07/03/2013 09:55 AM

CHICAGO, July 3, 2013 – The future of the internet isn’t just another social network or addicting game. It’s about making our society better, safer, smarter and more productive with next-generation applications running on ultra-fast gigabit connections.

Community Connect Grant Application Deadline Nears

07/02/2013 03:22 PM

The application deadline for a grant opportunity to establish broadband internet availability in underserved rural areas is quickly approaching.

Broadband Communities Regional Conference Comes to Chicagoland

07/01/2013 02:31 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, July 1, 2013 -- Broadband has played a key role in the innovation-driven economic rebound in Illinois and the role of high-speed internet will be front and center at an upcoming event on economic development in Chicagoland.

Escape Locally Website Promotes Local Tourism, Services, Business

06/23/2013 01:40 PM

Booking an all-inclusive weekend getaway complete with hiking, wine tasting, luxury cabins and family fun is easier (and closer) than you think thanks to a new local tourism website created by a Carbondale man.

Newsletter: US Ignite Application Summit, Agriculture Tech, more

06/20/2013 09:33 AM

Read the recent newsletter from Broadband Illinois including articles about the upcoming US Ignite Summit, Next-Gen Apps, and more!

Ag Students Embrace New Broadband Technologies

06/19/2013 01:59 PM

The face of agriculture is changing with the advancement of internet technology, and Illinois' future farmers appear to be more than willing to embrace it.

How Next-Gen Apps are Changing Society for the Better

06/19/2013 10:15 AM

The race to build ultra high-speed gigabit networks is on. From Kansas City to Chattanooga, everyone’s talking about “getting to a gig.” But what will we do with all that speed and why do we need it?

Fishin' Buddies App Connects Chicago Youth With Nature

06/17/2013 11:41 AM

Fishin’ Buddies, a non-profit organization dedicated to introducing urban children to the outdoors through conservation and environmental education programs was awarded $49,000 through the Illinois Broadband Innovation fund to further its mission through mobile technology.

Summit to Demonstrate Next-Gen, Gigabit Applications

06/13/2013 02:47 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, JUNE 13, 2013 – You’ve heard all the talk about gigabit networks, but what can we actually do with all that speed? Find out at the US Ignite Application Summit.

Newsletter: ConnectED Announced, Taylorville Fiber To The Home, More

06/12/2013 09:44 AM

ConnectED Announced, Taylorville Fiber To The Home, Warren County Virtual Museum, more

MTC Communications Boosts Agriculture Education at WIU

06/11/2013 03:41 PM

Learning capabilities at Western Illinois University’s School of Agriculture has received a major boost thanks to MTC Communications.

Broadband in the News: Lt. Governor expands virtual legal clinic

06/10/2013 08:39 AM

CARBONDALE – May 24, 2013. Lt. Governor Sheila Simon announced the expansion of her virtual legal clinic program to The Cairo Women’s Shelter today. The program connects survivors of domestic violence with lawyers for a free legal consultation using webcams and high-speed Internet technology.

Fiber to the Home Coming to Taylorville

06/05/2013 11:34 AM

Installation of a fiber to the home network with some of the highest capable speeds in the nation will begin later this month in Taylorville.

Warren County Virtual Museum to Merge History, Technology, Community

06/03/2013 02:04 PM

Technology, history and education will converge in Monmouth with the creation of the Warren County Virtual Museum, powered by an open-source web application.

Inaugural Broadband Telemedicine Summit Convenes Top Healthcare Technology Authorities

05/29/2013 04:17 PM

Broadband Illinois convened the inaugural Broadband Telemedicine Summit on Monday, May 20, bringing together healthcare leaders, government officials and broadband enthusiasts from three states to discuss how high-speed internet is revolutionizing the medical industry.

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Holds Broadband Adoption Seminars

05/29/2013 03:23 PM

Through the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund, a grant administered by Broadband Illinois, the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission conducted 12 seminars last week aimed at using high-speed internet to boost business.

Comcast Activates Nearly 100 WiFi Hotspots in Springfield

05/24/2013 03:43 PM

Comcast this week announced it has activated nearly 100 Wifi hotspots around the city of Springfield.

NTIA: State Broadband Initiatives Need To Demonstrate Value of Mapping, Planning Efforts

05/02/2013 12:01 PM

Demonstrating the importance of broadband planning and mapping at the statewide and local levels is the key priority for the the remaining 18 months of the state broadband initiative program, said Larry Strickling, Assistant Secretary of the National Telecommunication and Information Administration (NTIA).

Expert Panel to Discuss Healthcare Needs and Challenges at Broadband Telemedicine Summit

04/26/2013 10:35 AM

The opening panel of the Broadband Telemedicine Summit, set for May 20 in St. Louis, Mo., will feature experts who will discuss healthcare needs and challenges faced in the advancement and adoption of telemedicine.

Survey of Illinois Households Examines Broadband Usage, Benefits, Barriers

04/21/2013 05:49 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, April 22, 2013 – In a multi-faceted survey released earlier this month by Broadband Illinois, Illinois households rated fiber-optic internet connections highest in terms of speed, reliability and value. However, households in rural and isolated areas of Illinois are almost four times as likely to have a dial-up connection.

UC2B Director Gant: Libraries Vital to Adoption, Usage in Gigabit Cities

04/19/2013 02:26 PM

Dr. Jon Gant, Director of the UC2B Broadband Adoption Program at the University of Illinois, called on libraries in gigabit cities to lead the way in public ultra-high speed adoption.

University of Chicago, Gigabit Squared Partnership Highlighted at Broadband Communities Summit

04/16/2013 05:29 PM

An initiative to establish a gigabit-speed network in south side Chicago neighborhoods was featured as an Illinois success story in the making Tuesday during the annual Broadband Communities Summit in Dallas, Texas.

Last Day for Earlybird Registration, Lowery Confirmed as Keynote Speaker, Bluebird is Major Sponsor

04/15/2013 12:03 PM

Organizers of the inaugural Broadband Telemedicine Summit are reminding potential guests that today, Monday, April 15, is the final day to register under the discounted earlybird rate of $50.

New Report Highlights Broadband Utilization in Illinois Regions, Industry Sectors

04/15/2013 07:41 AM

Regional differences in broadband usage prevail in Illinois commercial businesses and public organizations, and public libraries are filling the gap by providing Wi-Fi access and one-on-one digital literacy trainings, according to a new report released by Broadband Illinois.

Governor Quinn Proclaims “Innovation Day” in Illinois

04/12/2013 10:30 AM

Governor Pat Quinn proclaimed today “Innovation Day” in Illinois while hosting an annual innovation forum at the Executive Mansion. Today’s action is part of Governor Quinn’s agenda to foster innovation and drive Illinois’ economy forward. Innovation Day brings together the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition (ISTC), the Illinois Innovation Council and members of the General Assembly to discuss the state’s progress in today’s growing innovation marketplace.

Report: High-Speed Internet Key for Job Creation, Economic Development

04/08/2013 10:23 AM

Illinois businesses view high-speed internet as a source of job creation, an important way to present themselves to the world and as a way to improve internal operations, according to a multi-faceted research report released today by Broadband Illinois.

New Online Tool Attracts Entrepreneurs to SouthEast Central Illinois

04/03/2013 04:57 PM

PrairieSpark Hub website to offer free business resources, maps and youth materials

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, APRIL 3, 2013 -- Entrepreneurs in Central Illinois will soon have access to an online resource with information on how to start, market and find the best location for their business.

Better Broadband, Better Lifeline Pilot Program Launched This Week

04/03/2013 11:45 AM

Illinois is the site of a pioneering federal pilot project that will supply qualifying customers of seven rural Illinois phone companies with a refurbished computer for $50 and a year’s worth of high-speed Internet access for as low as $9.95 a month, consumer advocates and telecommunications companies announced Tuesday.

Earlybird Registration Available for Broadband Telemedicine Summit

04/01/2013 12:38 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, April 1, 2013 – Organizers of the inaugural Broadband Telemedicine Summit today announced more affordable categories of pricing tiers and robust additions to the event’s agenda.

Participants who register for the summit before April 15 are eligible for an early bird rate of $50. Discounts for students and public interest organizations are also available.

FCC Workshop Panelists: Public and Private Partnerships Vital to Fiber Initiatives

03/28/2013 01:22 PM

WASHINGTON, D.C. - March 27, 2013 - The Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge, along with similar initiatives, was cited as a key to keeping the United States competitive in the global economic market Wednesday during a workshop held by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in Washington, D.C.

Tech Classes at Six Mile Regional Library District Help Bridge Digital Divide

03/26/2013 02:34 PM

A new educational program at the Six Mile Regional Library District in Granite City is helping to bridge the digital divide among senior citizens in the area.

Connect2Compete Launches National Campaign to Increase Digital Literacy

03/22/2013 11:44 AM

Nonprofit organzation Connect2Compete has announced the launch of a national campaign aimed at increasing digital literacy throughout the nation.

Carlinville Students Use Technology to Capture Stories of WWII Vets

03/20/2013 04:33 PM

Students at Carlinville High School are making a personal connection to American history thanks, in part, to an Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Award.

Telemedicine Summit to Bring Together Healthcare Leaders from 3 States

03/14/2013 02:44 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, March 13, 2013 – A first-of-its-kind telemedicine event is bringing together healthcare leaders, government officials and broadband enthusiasts from 3 states to discuss how high-speed internet is revolutionizing the medical industry.

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03/12/2013 07:36 AM

Illinois Broadband Innovation a Hot Topic at Rural Community Economic Development Conference

03/08/2013 03:08 PM

The subject of broadband innovation carried a noticeable presence this week at the 24^th annual Rural Community Economic Development Conference held Wednesday and Thursday in Peoria.

Better Broadband, Better Lifeline Pilot Program Set to Launch April 1

03/07/2013 11:54 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, March 7, 2013 -- A new pilot program, set to launch April 1 will provide up to $1.5 million in discounted internet service and additional funds for digital literacy training, and low-cost desktop computers to low-income households in 35 rural Illinois counties.

IBIF Awardee Spotlight: 21st Century Youth Project

03/04/2013 02:51 PM

For Emile Cambry Jr., founder and CEO of the 21^st Century Youth Project, it’s all about creating opportunities for youth growing up in Chicago neighborhoods where college is unlikely and landing a job is tough.

iFiber participates in regional eTeam planning

03/01/2013 04:05 PM

iFiber is among regional stakeholders that have been meeting regularly since January 2012 as part of the Northwest Illinois eTeam.Coordinated by Broadband Illinois,10 regional eTeams are involved in several primary areas, including convening stakeholders, aggregating demand and identifying supply side solutions. The objective is to assemble a regional network that will result in an organized system for the ongoing development of broadband access and adoption throughout Illinois.

Regional broadband network set for Aug. 1 debut

03/01/2013 03:28 PM

NORMAL — The Central Illinois Regional Broadband Network is on track to go live by Aug. 1.

The project is being coordinated by Illinois State University. Consultant Dick Runner said Monday that service proposals — which include rate information — are being mailed to the first groups to reap the benefits of the high-speed Internet project.

MCHC Aims to Spread Telepsychiatry, Better Mental Health Care with IBIF Award

02/27/2013 04:04 PM

Emergency rooms in Illinois have reached a “crisis state” when it comes to the number of mental health patients seeking treatment, according to Dr. Michael Wahl, medical director of the Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council (MCHC).

Rural Illinois High-Schoolers Become Entrepreneurs in CEO Class

02/25/2013 02:49 PM

Students in Effingham-county’s CEO class aren’t your typical teenagers. Each weekday, often before 7 a.m., local high-schoolers can be found in the region’s fastest-growing companies, meeting with successful entrepreneurs and even starting their own businesses.

Webinar: Meet the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Awardees

02/21/2013 02:40 PM

In our third and final Meet the Broadband Innovation Fund Awardees webinar, Dr. Michael Wahl of Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council, Marlene Wirth and Johnna Morecraft of Connecting Generations and Emile Cambry of the 21st Century Youth Project give presentations on their projects.

Video: Goodwill Industries Counters Digital Divide in Chicagoland Job Market

02/21/2013 11:08 AM

Goodwill Industries in the Chicago area is working to ease unemployment numbers in some neighborhoods caught in the digital divide.

Building Private-Public Partnerships is Key to Success for Broadband Expansion in Illinois

02/20/2013 01:32 PM

We’ve seen multiple news articles in the first months of 2013 that present challenges and opportunities in our core broadband space. At Broadband Illinois, we’re tuned in to happenings in the high-speed realm both for our own state and for the lessons learned elsewhere.

Illinois Telepsychiatry Symposium Set for March 6

02/20/2013 11:45 AM

A symposium focused on how organizations can benefit from the use of telepsychiatry is set for Wednesday, March 6, in Springfield and Chicago.

FCC Report: Frontier Improves Service by 13 Percent

02/15/2013 04:12 PM

Broadband internet service provided by Frontier Communications Corporation has improved 13 percent since April, according to a report released this month by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Cell One gets new tower in Mattoon

02/14/2013 02:23 PM

Service for Cellular One customers in the Mattoon area has been enhanced with the recent addition of another cellular tower.

Chicago Lawn Making Strides Against Digital Divide

02/14/2013 02:19 PM

One southwest Chicago neighborhood is hoping it’s found a viable and sustainable plan to spread free public wireless internet access throughout the surrounding communities.

Webinar: Meet the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Awardees

02/14/2013 10:57 AM

Broadband Illinois conducted a webinar this week showcasing four of the 14 Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Awardees.

Broadband Illinois Releases 2012 Annual Report

02/07/2013 09:46 AM

Efforts to expand high-speed internet access throughout Illinois through economic development initiatives, gigabit-level connectivity, innovation and education were among the key focuses of Broadband Illinois in 2012, according to the Broadband Illinois annual report released today.

New Report Reveals Increases in Broadband Adoption and Usage Among Chicago's Smart Communities

02/06/2013 04:06 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, February 6, 2013 -- Residents in neighborhoods participating in Chicago’s Smart Communities program are using high-speed internet more frequently, but greater access to affordable broadband at home remains an issue for at-risk communities, according to new research released today on the Broadband Illinois website.

MTC Communications Expands Ultra High-Speed Infrastructure in Western Illinois

01/23/2013 11:27 AM

Bill Buchanan leads the Colchester-based MTC Communications team. In addition to providing high-speed internet and other services throughout Western Illinois, MTC is also a Broadband Innovation Fund awardee and Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge applicant.

Broadband Illinois Begins 7th Round of Data Collection

01/23/2013 10:12 AM

Broadband Illinois has begun its seventh round of broadband data collection and submission to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), organization representatives announced this week.

Quinn Grants $1 Million to Evanston in Gigabit Communities Challenge Program

01/22/2013 01:43 PM

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn on Friday announced that Evanston is the third grant recipient in the Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge state grant program.

Illinois Board of Education Meets With Broadband Illinois on Standardized Testing

01/17/2013 08:41 PM

Representatives from Broadband Illinois met with top officials from the State Board of Education on Thursday to discuss statewide connectivity issues in public schools.

Monmouth Plans Virtual Museum with Broadband Funds

01/15/2013 04:06 PM

The city of Monmouth is moving forward with design plans for a virtual museum, thanks to the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund.

Co-ops building smart grid communications with a broadband bonus

01/11/2013 02:07 PM

If you live in a city you probably have access to several broadband Internet provider options. The same can’t always be said for those living in rural areas. But there’s good news.

At Rural Libraries, Young and Old Connect to Learn and Teach Digital Literacy Skills

12/20/2012 11:30 AM

Effingham Library’s “Connecting Generations” Program Matches Teens and Seniors for Computer Training

DECEMBER 20, 2012 – Nancy lives in an assisted living community and wants to learn how to use Skype to keep up with her out-of-state family. Makayla is smart, tech-savvy and goes to a high-school school that requires community service hours for each student. Both are meeting their needs thanks to the Connecting Generations program at Helen Matthes Library in Effingham.

Many "Broadband Moments" for Illinois in 2012

12/20/2012 11:23 AM

It’s been a big year for broadband in Illinois. Statewide initiatives challenged us to think innovatively about broadband access and expansion while new internet adoption programs targeted the 37 percent of Illinoisans who aren’t using broadband. Providers of broadband in Illinois continued to expand and update their infrastructure with newer, faster technologies that are reaching the schools, hospitals, and homes that need it the most. And yesterday, we received exciting news from the Federal Communications Commission. Our “Better Broadband, Better Lifeline” pilot program will bring $1.5 million to Illinois, providing reduced-cost internet service, training and more to 35 counties with low internet adoption rates. Read more here.

FCC Awards 1.5 Million to Illinois Broadband Carriers for Lifeline Pilot Program

12/19/2012 05:14 PM

“Better Broadband, Better Lifeline” Program Will Provide Discounted Service, Training and Internet Devices to Low-Income Illinois Residents

SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS, December 19, 2012 – Residents in 35 rural Illinois counties are set to receive $1.5 million in discounted internet service, digital literacy training, and low-cost internet devices as part of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Broadband Lifeline Adoption Pilot Program Competition, the FCC today announced.

Central Illinois Regional Broadband Network Bridges Digital Divide in Rural Areas

12/06/2012 10:29 AM

Broadband Illinois interviewed Scott Genung, Director of Telecommunications and Networking at Illinois State University, on the progress and goals of the Central Illinois Regional Broadband Network (CIRBN). The network, based out of Normal, is a federally funded project designed to provide high-speed, low-cost Internet connectivity to community anchor institutions (CAIs) and communities throughout Central Illinois. CIRBN will serve rural communities as well as K-12 school districts, healthcare, public safety, government, not-for-profit, and commercial institutions. The project is scheduled to be completed in Summer 2013!

Cyber Broadcasting Utilizes Mapping Data to Expand, Serve Housing Authorities

12/05/2012 06:23 PM

Cesare Bratta is the President of Cyber Broadcasting, LLC, based out of Coal City. He frequently attends eTeam meetings in the Northwest and North Central regions and has even utilized Broadband Illinois speed-tier maps to expand his coverage area.

Mid Century Telephone Builds Fiber to Recreational Community

12/05/2012 03:53 PM

Broadband Illinois interviewed Brenda Soland, Commerical Manager at Mid Century Telephone Cooperative about a new fiber expansion to the resort community of Oak Run and other happenings at the North Central Illinois company.

Joink LLC Expands Service Area in East Central Illinois

12/05/2012 02:54 PM

Brian Gray is the Network Manager at Joink LLC, a provider of high-speed internet in Southeast Central Illinois and Western Indiana.

Are you serving any interesting anchor institutions or businesses that are using your services to do innovative things?

Absolutely! We provide Internet connectivity to many medical facilities, local governments, K-12 schools, and home businesses in Illinois and Indiana. As for distance learning, I know we have a number of home users who use the Internet for getting higher education online. Usually, these are adults who have full-time jobs and are trying to improve their lives by receiving a college education.

Rahm's broadband plan draws lots of interest

11/29/2012 10:50 AM

Mayor Rahm Emanuel's plan to position Chicago for the digital age has received a warm reception from telecom providers, with more than a score of companies, including industry leaders, seriously kicking tires on the idea of providing ultra-high-speed broadband and expanded free Wi-Fi service here.

Center for Digital Inclusion is Established at the University of Illinois

11/21/2012 02:10 PM

The Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS) is proud to announce the establishment of the Center for Digital Inclusion (CDI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The CDI strives to foster inclusive and sustainable societies through research, teaching, and public engagement about information and communication technologies (ICT).

Mayor Emanuel, CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett, Microsoft and United Way Announce the Opening of 12 New Parent Engagement Centers in CPS

11/20/2012 05:23 PM

Centers Are Being Piloted in 12 Schools As Part of the Administration’s Focus on Encouraging Parental Involvement in Their Children’s Education; Pilot Is A Collaboration with Microsoft, United Way and Chicago Public Schools That Helps Parents Develop the Digital Skills they Need to Help Their Children Continue Learning

Chicago Public Schools, Microsoft, United Way team up to provide ‘digital literacy’

11/20/2012 03:54 PM

Mary Ann Moore-Lockhart says her two sisters didn’t know a mouse “is not something you catch in a trap’’ until they got computer training at a new Parent Engagement Center at Chicago’s Libby School.

We need your vote!

11/20/2012 03:35 PM

We need your vote to get Better Broadband to more Illinoisans!
Broadband Illinois is competing in the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest and a $25,000 grand prize is up for grabs.

Our Town Grows: Web Tools Sustain Life, Learning and Local Commerce Everywhere

11/16/2012 11:22 AM

People now meet on the street and in local web places. How is this done? How do Internet tools help the local economy? Read the full blog post by Layton Olson to find some answers to these questions, featured here on Broadband Illinois!

Finding and Nurturing New Internet Users

11/15/2012 03:55 PM

We've been collecting and publishing data about broadband supply for more than two years. We've submitted six rounds of this data to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the National Broadband Map. Our Broadband Illinois website features a plethora of resources, maps, and tools created with this information. Studying the ways Illinoisans adopt to and use broadband is another key piece of the "broadband picture." This month, we are pleased to release a series of pathbreaking research reports into broadband usage.

New Report Reveals Regional Differences in Illinois Broadband Usage

11/14/2012 10:29 AM

The digital divide prevails in areas of Southern and Western Illinois where less than 60 percent of residents use high-speed internet services at their home, according to a report on broadband adoption and usage released today by Broadband Illinois.

Lighting and Heating Main Street and Residential Areas

11/08/2012 01:51 PM

Utilities and Broadband as Foundations for Economic Vitality in Rural and Urban Places

What does it take to upgrade lighting and heating utilities to achieve 21^st Century energy savings and productivity? How do decisions about Energy and the Environment – as one of seven needs identified in FCC National Broadband Plan – help local community institution networks gain confidence in their Digital Age visions for economic future?

Sandburg College Tops in Digital Education

10/25/2012 11:10 AM

GALESBURG, IL - Carl Sandburg College has been named the national champion in the small colleges category of the eighth annual Digital Community Colleges Survey by e.Republic’s Center for Digital Education.

This is the sixth year in a row Sandburg has been named one of the top 10 colleges in its category, which includes schools with less than 5,000 students.

“Carl Sandburg College is thrilled to be recognized as the No. 1 community college in our category for the entire United States. It is truly an honor,” President Dr. Lori Sundberg said. “The kudos for this award goes directly to our outstanding Information Technology Department and our Vice President of Administrative Services and CIO, Samuel Sudhakar.”

Broadband Illinois Updates Carrier Information on Website, Including 'Find Broadband Tool'

10/24/2012 04:12 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, October 24, 2012 -- Broadband Illinois has submitted its sixth round of data to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). In this submission, 69 internet carriers provided data on coverage and broadband speeds and Illinois' updates will be included in the National Broadband Map. Fourteen of these 69 carriers are submitting their coverage areas to Broadband Illinois for the first time.

Governor Quinn Launches Illinois Open Technology Challenge

10/22/2012 11:13 AM

Competition Expands Availability of Local Public Data; Encourages Technology Innovation and Job Creation in Pilot Communities Belleville, Rockford, Champaign and the South Suburbs

CHICAGO – October 20, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today announced a major accountability and transparency initiative designed to help local governments expand the amount of data available to the public. The Illinois Open Technology Challenge is a pilot initiative that will make Illinois’ open data platform, Data.Illinois.Gov, available to municipal governments statewide. The Challenge, which will launch in the pilot communities of Belleville, Champaign, Rockford, and Chicago’s South Suburbs, will promote the availability of public data and encourage the use of technology to address government challenges through innovation and entrepreneurship.

Deadlines Extended for Chicago Broadband Challenge

10/18/2012 03:36 PM

CHICAGO, October 18, 2012 -- The City of Chicago has issued extensions for all deadlines pertaining to Mayor Emanuel's Chicago Broadband Challenge.

Governor Quinn Announces Second Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge Winner

10/16/2012 08:48 PM

AURORA – October 16, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that OnLight Aurora is a recipient of an Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge award, a statewide competition to establish ultra-high speed broadband networks across Illinois. The state is awarding $1 million in Illinois Jobs Now! capital funding to OnLight Aurora to help connect the city of Aurora’s fiber optic network to its education, business, and healthcare communities and accelerate economic growth and job creation.

South Side Gigabit Challenge and Chicago's Broadband Future

10/16/2012 05:42 PM

CHICAGO- October 16, 2012 -- Governor Pat Quinn today announced the first winner of the Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge, Gigabit Squared. The company, the City of Chicago, the University of Chicago, and Cook County, will receive $2 million in seed funding to jumpstart a fiber optic and wireless network in nine South Side Chicago neighborhoods.

Governor Quinn Announces First Winner of Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge

10/16/2012 03:05 PM

CHICAGO – October 16, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that nine Chicago neighborhoods are the first beneficiaries of the Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge, a statewide competition to establish ultra-high speed broadband networks across Illinois. The state is awarding $2 million in Illinois Jobs Now! capital funding to Gigabit Squared, which in partnership with Cook County, the city of Chicago and the University of Chicago, will deploy gigabit fiber and wireless in neighborhoods on Chicago’s mid-south side.

Making the Most of our Broadband Moment

10/12/2012 12:59 PM

Illinois, and Chicago along with it, has hit its moment for broadband. A series of initiatives have laid the foundation for private and public organizations to focus on high-speed infrastructure and broadband usage. We at Broadband Illinois recently announced 14 awardees for the Broadband Innovation Fund. And we look forward to the Illinois Gigabit Challenge rolling out.

AT&T Invests More Than $190 Million In Chicago Network In First Half Of 2012

10/10/2012 10:58 AM

Invests nearly $1.2 Billion from 2009 through the First Half of 2012 To Boost Capacity and Deliver Superior 4G and Broadband Experience in Chicago

Provider Spotlight: Q &A with Pavlov Media

10/09/2012 05:13 PM

Pavlov Media was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in Downtown Champaign. The company employs 95 people with 85 in Champaign/Urbana. Pavlov Media operates in 37 states in more than 140 markets throughout the country.

Broadband Innovation Fund to Award $500,000 to 14 Illinois Organizations

10/09/2012 12:03 PM

BROADBAND INNOVATION FUND TO AWARD $500,000 TO 14 ILLINOIS ORGANIZATIONS

Projects will increase high-speed internet adoption and usage in creative ways, full list of recipients and applicants published on Broadband Illinois webpage

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, October 9, 2012 – Tele-psychiatry in rural areas, a virtual history museum, and training for young entrepreneurs are among the 14 projects that have been selected as recipients for the first Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund.

U.S. Cellular Receives Four “Mobility Fund” Grants for Illinois

10/04/2012 02:57 PM

FCC ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF AMERICA'S FIRST 'MOBILITY FUND' AUCTION: UP TO 83,000 NEW U.S. ROAD MILES ON WHICH MILLIONS OF AMERICANS LIVE, WORK, OR TRAVEL WILL GAIN ACCESS TO MOBILE INTERNET WITHIN THREE YEARS

U.S. Cellular received four "Mobility Grants" for Illinois, totalling about $3.5 million.

Washington, October 3, 2012 -- FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski today announced the winners of America’s first ‘Mobility Fund’ auction. This market-based policy innovation was part of the Commission’s once-in-a-generation reform of the Universal Service Program last year, which allocated $300 million in savings from cutting waste and inefficiency, to a new Mobility Fund aimed at closing gaps in mobile coverage across the U.S. The effort marks the first time in history the Commission has made universal mobile service an express universal service goal.

Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Recipients To Be Announced Via Statewide Webinar

10/01/2012 02:29 PM

The wait is almost over for broadband enthusiasts across the state. Broadband Illinois will announce the recipients of $500,000 in funding for the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund on a statewide webinar tomorrow, Tuesday, October 2.

Provider Spotlight: Wisper ISP

09/26/2012 10:36 PM

BELLEVILLE, September 26, 2012 -- In 2003, Nathan Stooke's neighbor needed broadband.

While Stooke had high-speed access on his side of the street, his neighbor, a small business owner, was not so lucky. Stooke began to investigate how wireless internet worked, and was soon providing service to his neighbor.

Special Report: Chicago Broadband Challenge

09/26/2012 08:46 PM

On September 24, 2012 Mayor Emanuel announced an ambitious broadband initiative with a three key missions:

Build gigabit last-mile fiber infrastructure in 15 “innovation zones” located in commercial and industrial corridors throughout the city, feeding Chicago’s growing startup community.
Bring cheap broadband access to underserved neighborhoods in the city and develop training programs to teach residents in those areas the “digital skills” necessary to put that access to use.
Launch a network of free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout city parks, plazas and other public spaces.

Benton Receives Ethics in Telecommunications Award

09/26/2012 08:37 PM

WASHINGTON, September 26, 2012 -- Charles Benton, chairman of the board of the Benton Foundation and vice chairman of Partnership for a Connected Illinois, has received the Everett C. Parker Ethics in Telecommunications Award in recognition of his many years of leadership and support for promoting the public interest in digital and transitional media.

Broadband Deployment Council Meets Tomorrow to Discuss Innovation Fund, Chicago Broadband Challenge and more

09/26/2012 07:38 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, September 27, 2012 – Broadband enthusiasts across the State will gather tomorrow to discuss the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund, the Chicago Broadband Challenge and progress by broadband-related committees.

Mixing Water and Broadband: Dig Once rules for water projects mean lower cost fiber to businesses and homes

09/26/2012 04:03 PM

What’s the “water + broadband” recipe for cost-cutting and faster Internet?

Since water projects are big ticket public works matters for local governments to pay for, they become vital to plans for low cost installation of fiber conduit in neighborhoods and business districts.

Mayor Emanuel Announces Chicago Broadband Challenge

09/24/2012 11:56 AM

City Will Completely Remake its Digital Infrastructure, Providing Access to Underserved Areas, Free Access in Public Spaces, and Affordable Access for the Business Community

Broadband Innovation Fund Generates More Than 100 Proposals

09/21/2012 10:11 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, September 21, 2012 – More than 100 private, public, and nonprofit Illinois organizations have submitted proposals to utilize high-speed internet networks to develop opportunities in healthcare, education, job creation, public safety and more.

John Deere Tractors Go Wireless For Remote Troubleshooting

09/18/2012 01:45 PM

Deere & Co., the No. 2 company in the InformationWeek 500, adds remote diagnosis to farm and construction vehicles to build closer customer ties.

Governor Quinn Issues Executive Order to Further Increase Government Transparency

09/18/2012 01:38 PM

New Executive Order Increases Government Data Available to the Public

A New Era of Learning

09/18/2012 01:35 PM

West Prairie High School students, teachers adapt to use of iPads in class

Deadline Approaching for Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund

09/14/2012 09:55 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, September 14, 2012 – Broadband enthusiasts across the state have until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18 to submit proposals to the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund.

The fund prompts Illinois innovators to propose ways to improve quality of life through broadband usage, and up to $500,000 will be awarded to the most promising internet adoption and usage projects.

Frontier Announces Higher Broadband Speed Availability in Illinois

09/13/2012 12:40 PM

Press Release from Frontier Communications: Residential and Small Business customers in more than 170 communities now benefit from increased broadband speeds

Illinois Businesses Invited to Participate in Broadband Survey

09/10/2012 04:07 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, September 10, 2012 – Businesses throughout Illinois are invited to participate in a new survey on how they utilize high-speed internet and the broadband access needs of their company.

Spotlight on CenturyLink

09/10/2012 03:52 PM

CenturyLink is continuing to build a presence in Illinois. With a geographic footprint reaching north to Jo Davies County and south to Mason County, CenturyLink operates 22 exchanges in three geographic regions of Illinois with more than 37,000 access lines.

“We try to be conscious of the competition,” said John Fordham, Manager Area Operations in the Illinois Market for CenturyLink. “We are competing for the same customers in many regions, which is a double-edged sword. It encourages us to be better in order to the offer customer better service and better pricing. They see that as a real value.”

Wireless Access Increases Sales, Access to Fresh Foods

09/07/2012 01:28 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – September 7, 2012. More Illinois families will have access to affordable, local produce thanks to a federal grant that will double the amount of farmer’s markets using wireless technology to accept payment.

Report Cites Broadband as Major Issue for Rural Illinois

09/07/2012 12:59 PM

SPRINGFIELD – September 7, 2012. Broadband infrastructure, access, and cost of service are top priorities for rural Illinois communities, according to a report published by Lt. Governor Shelia Simon’s office and the Illinois Institute of Rural Affairs.

Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Extends Deadline

09/06/2012 12:59 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, September 6, 2012 – The deadline to apply to the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund has been extended to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18, 2012.

Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund Accepting Applications, Announces Q & A Webinar

09/04/2012 07:07 PM

ILLINOIS BROADBAND INNOVATION FUND ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS, ANNOUNCES Q & A WEBINAR

Thursday’s webinar will address remaining program questions and assist with online submission

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, September 5, 2012 – The deadline to apply for an Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund award is less than one week away and organizations throughout the state are putting the final touches on plans to expand high-speed internet adoption and usage in their region.

Broadband Illinois to Present at Federation of Internet Solution Providers Conference

09/04/2012 02:13 PM

BROADBAND ILLINOIS TO PRESENT AT FEDERATION OF INTERNET SOLUTION PROVIDERS CONFERENCE

SPRINGFIELD, IL, September 4, 2012 –Sessions on broadband infrastructure and deployment, mapping broadband data, and broadband adoption and usage will be presented by Broadband Illinois at the upcoming Federation of Internet Solution Providers of the Americas Conference in Chicago September 17 - 19.

Broadband Innovation Tour Attracts Hundreds

08/28/2012 09:44 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, August 28, 2012 -- The Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund is generating interest throughout the state with hundreds attending three webinars and four stakeholder meetings to learn about the new internet adoption and usage initiative.

Broadband Illinois invites bids on providing up to 3,500 refurbished personal computers

08/21/2012 10:01 PM

Broadband Illinois invites you to bid on providing up to 3,500 refurbished personal computer desktops and accessories.

Spurring Innovation Through Broadband Usage and Adoption

08/21/2012 03:13 PM

Our organization aims to ensure Better Broadband and Better Lives for all Illinoisans. As part of our three-fold mission, we’ve submitted five rounds of broadband data and maps to the U.S. Department of Commerce, and our 10 regional eTeams have worked to address broadband access issues while promoting high-speed internet builds. Last week, we reached a new milestone with the launch of the Illinois Broadband Innovation Fund, a program seeking to enhance the internet’s usage and maximize its impact.

Broadband Innovation Tour Launches, Program Materials Released

08/17/2012 04:12 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, August 17, 2012 – The Broadband Innovation Fund, a new high-speed internet adoption initiative from the Partnership for a Connected Illinois, kicked-off this week with two live webinars and stakeholder meetings at the Illinois State Library in Springfield.

New Program Aims to Improve Quality of Life Through Internet Usage

08/14/2012 12:47 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, August 16, 2012 -Job creation, educational opportunities for low-income citizens, and improved public safety are among the goals of an innovative high-speed internet adoption program announced today by Broadband Illinois.

List of Illinois Gigabit Challenge Applicants Published

08/08/2012 12:24 PM

SPRINGFIELD – August 8, 2012. More than 40 communities are in the running for seed funding to build ultra high-speed broadband networks, according to a list of applicants published by the Illinois Gigabit Challenge Team.

Frontier Communications and Hughes Announce Wholesale Agreement to Provide Satellite Broadband Services

08/07/2012 10:26 AM

Several hundred thousand households and businesses targeted for new Frontier Broadband Service

FCC: Nearly 400,000 Unserved Americans in Rural Communities Will Gain Access to High-Speed Internet Within Three Years

07/26/2012 11:04 AM

Washington, D.C. – The Federal Communications Commission today announced that nearly 400,000 residents and small business owners in 37 states will gain access to high-speed Internet within three years, as a result of the first phase of the ‘Connect America Fund.’ About $115 million of public funding will be coupled with tens of millions more in private investment to quickly expand broadband infrastructure to rural communities in every region of the nation. Many projects will begin immediately, and all projects must be completed within three years.

4SIWI Provides Wireless Service to Southern Illinois

07/18/2012 02:16 PM

“We started at my Uncle’s kitchen table,” said Ceci Perry Uban of For Southern Illinois Wireless Internet’s (4SIWI) humble beginnings.

4SIWI started out as a plan to build out a fiber ring in Marion, Ill., with fiber to business connections, but grew when the company purchased the existing customer base of a wireless network of sixteen towers.

Clinton County Hosts Broadband Internet Meeting

07/17/2012 03:33 PM

A broadband (high speed internet) meeting was held in the Clinton County Board Room on July 12, 2012. Sixteen community leaders and three staff members of Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) attended the meeting. Barb Webster of PCI was the main speaker for the meeting and broadband topics were discussed at length.

Vote to Find Wi-Fi in Rural Illinois

07/17/2012 01:37 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - July 17, 2012. Broadband Illinois has applied for a grant to help rural residents find Wi-Fi Hotspots in their area.

Broadband Illinois Submits Innovative Funding Request to Federal Communications Commission

07/09/2012 07:55 AM

Low-income Illinois residents in 35 rural counties could receive $2 million in funding for refurbished computers, digital literacy training and subsidized internet service as a result of an application filed by the Partnership for a Connected Illinois to a new Federal Communications Commission broadband adoption pilot program.

$7 Billion Public Safety Communication: States Get Ready for Planning Grants

07/03/2012 10:10 AM

Now’s the time to get ready to plan the best uses of public safety communication investments.
Summer-fall is the time for states, regions and communities to get ready for planning so-called “interoperable” state public safety communication networks to be funded by $7 billion in Federal resources in the coming decade.

Central eTeam Hosts Kick-off Meeting

06/28/2012 02:52 PM

Broadband enthusiasts from twelve Central Illinois counties gathered in Springfield on June 13 for a kick- off meeting of the Central eTeam. High-speed internet access, adoption and education were hot topics of discussion amongst providers, economic development professionals, and community leaders from across the region.

Spurring Innovation Through Illinois Gov. Quinn’s Gigabit Challenge

06/28/2012 02:42 PM

As the June 30, 2012, deadline for Governor Pat Quinn’s Illinois Gigabit Community Challenge approaches, contenders across the state are putting the finishing touches on plans to expand ultra high-speed internet throughout their communities. This competition is the first of its kind for Illinois. The stakes are high: A total of $6 million in capital funding will be awarded to the most promising deployment projects.

Working to Get Illinois Using Broadband

06/21/2012 04:56 PM

Broadband is about more than wires and fiber, it’s about connecting people to better lives though better opportunities. Observers have long recognized that we must address the needs of those who have not yet migrated to the digital age—If we are not careful, they will be the digital have-nots. While 97 percent of Americans have access to telephone service, adoption of broadband remains at 69 percent. Illinois has kept exactly in line with this nationwide rate, but that means we still fall behind 23 other states.

Seniors Earn Diplomas from Connected Living Computer Training Program

06/21/2012 04:22 PM

The commencement ceremony was much like any other graduation. The graduates marched to their seats in the converted common room where friends, family, and fellow residents greeted them with applause. “Pomp and Circumstance” played over a loudspeaker as images of smiling faces were projected behind the stage. Onlookers stood in the wings snapping photos of the special day. Twenty-two seniors and community members had just received diplomas from the Connected Living computer training program at Mills Park Tower in Oak Park, Illinois.

Spotlight on Heartland Cable

06/14/2012 11:21 AM

Firefighters and government officials in rural Illinois have access to free or reduced-price broadband service, thanks to Heartland Cable.

Headquartered in Minonk, Heartland Cable provides video, phone, and high-speed internet service to more than 1,400 customers in rural towns throughout the Northeast Central, Northwest and North Central eTeam regions.

Uncovering Broadband and Education Opportunities in Springfield

06/14/2012 11:01 AM

While many Sangamon county students are enjoying summer vacation, local educators gathered on a June afternoon to discuss the high-speed internet needs, assets, and technology programs in their schools.

Connecting Southern Illinois with Opportunities Since 2006

06/14/2012 10:43 AM

The twenty southernmost counties of Illinois have been focused on broadband as an economic development tool since 2006. ConnectSI, a foundation dedicated to fueling these rural economies through broadband, agriculture, education, and healthcare initiatives, partnered with Broadband Illinois and now serves as the Southern eTeam.

New FCC Lifeline Pilot Program to Study Effects of Discounts and Training on Broadband Adoption Rates

06/08/2012 11:21 AM

On June 6th, Broadband Illinois, the Illinois Commerce Commission, the Universal Telephone Assistance Corporation, and Connected Living led a webinar to inform Illinois broadband providers of the new Lifeline Pilot Program of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Broadband Boosts Rural Business

05/31/2012 11:43 AM

You might not think farms have much need for broadband services, but in fact agriculture is being shaped by the services offered. According to the USDA report, Broadband Internet’s Value for Rural America, the more multi-faceted the farm business, the more the farm uses the Internet.

Spotlight on Cass Communications

05/30/2012 11:15 AM

Recent news from Cass Communications as featured in the May 17th, 2012, newsletter.

Southwest Central eTeam Hosts First Gathering in Edwardsville

05/29/2012 10:33 AM

On May 15, thirty-seven community leaders, providers and stakeholders met at Lewis and Clark Community College in Edwardsville to discuss the region’s high-speed internet assets and needs.

Broadband Growth Drives Commerce and Innovation in Illinois

05/29/2012 09:48 AM

Think about how much your company relies on high-speed broadband internet connection in the everyday operations of your business. If you’ve been operating with high-speed internet access for some time, the thought of trying to share data, collaborate, support new technologies and conduct business in the workplace with dial-up internet is probably terrifying to you.

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon seeks input on rural issues

05/22/2012 10:25 AM

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon has seen common themes and subtile differences in how rural Illinois communities list their priorities.

As she prepared for a listening post in Quincy on Thursday, Simon said her goal is to find areas where state government can help rural areas succeed.

See the original article here.

USDA Invites Applications for Grants to Provide Broadband Service to Remote Rural Communities

05/10/2012 11:58 AM

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA is accepting applications through the Community Connect Broadband program for grants to provide broadband service to residents of remote, rural communities.

North Central eTeam focuses on economic development

05/07/2012 03:10 PM

The North Central eTeam continues to convene and collaborate with stakeholders in their ten-county region. On April 12, economic development professionals, local government, and broadband carriers met in Peoria to discuss the latest broadband developments.

Spotlight on Tel-Star Cablevision

05/07/2012 03:09 PM

Recent news from Tel-Star Cablevision as featured in the May 2nd, 2012, newsletter.

Southeast Central eTeam plans for busy Spring

05/07/2012 02:45 PM

The Southeast Central eTeam is slated for an active Spring with events scheduled throughout the 13-county region. The team convened March 22 at Lakeland Community College in Mattoon to discuss adoption, access and training needs throughout the area.

Spotlight on Jo-Carroll Energy, Inc.

05/07/2012 02:30 PM

Recent news from Jo-Carroll Energy, Inc. as featured in the April 18th, 2012, newsletter.

West Central eTeam hosts Technology Summit, plans events for Spring

05/07/2012 02:02 PM

The Western Illinois Technology Services Group, a subgroup of the West Central Illinois eTeam, hosted a full-day Technology Summit in Carthage this January.

Spotlight on McDonough Telephone Cooperative

05/07/2012 02:00 PM

Recent news from McDonough Telephone Cooperative as featured in the April 4th, 2012, newsletter.

Frontier Announces Investments, Upgrades for Illinois Customers

05/04/2012 10:08 AM

Recent news from Frontier Communications as featured in the March 2th, 2012, newsletter.

Spotlight on NewWave Communications

05/03/2012 11:28 AM

Recent news from NewWave Communications as featured in the March 20th, 2012, newsletter.

Eliminate the Digital Divide Grant Deadline

05/03/2012 11:13 AM

The Eliminate the Digital Divide Grant Program applications deadline is Friday, March 16.

Message from Drew Clark, Executive Director

05/03/2012 11:09 AM

A short message from Executive Director Drew Clark on recent changes here at Partnership for a Connected Illinois.

Telemedicine: The New Pulse of Rural Health Care

05/02/2012 03:31 PM

Right now, the state of Illinois is in the midst of developing its broadband infrastructure. And, there are so many interested parties out there, either keeping a watchful eye on the development, or actively taking a role in shaping the future of Illinois broadband that the situation can become very convoluted.

5th Data Submission Complete: Updated Information on Providers, Speeds Available

04/17/2012 11:16 AM

More Illinoisans than ever have access to high-speed (broadband) Internet and carriers are continuing to expand their service areas, according to new data collected by the non-profit Partnership for a Connected Illinois. The organization, also known by its Broadband Illinois website, is responsible to the state and the federal government to collect and publish information from providers of high-speed Internet service. .

Follow-up webinar to continue discussion on Illinois Gigabit Community Challenge

02/27/2012 02:29 PM

On March 14 at 2pm, the Partnership for a Connected Illinois will respond to questions regarding viable projects, application procedures, and other questions that were raised in the kick-off webinar on February 22.

Upcoming Eliminate Digital Divide Info Sessions to provide resources for applicants

02/21/2012 04:10 PM

Applicants seeking details on the Eliminate the Digital Divide Grant may participate in one of two upcoming information sessions hosted by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Next Generation 9-1-1 project files to operate In Illinois

02/21/2012 12:08 PM

Next Generation 9-1-1 Systems utilize current communications technology to connect callers and their location information to the 9-1-1 professionals, who in turn dispatch needed services in emergency situations. These new systems offer lower costs, more flexibility in managing personnel and routing of calls, and a platform to support popular and emerging technologies, such as text messaging, telematics and video streaming. Such capabilities are not part of the existing basic 9-1-1 or Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) systems.

Webinar to Provide Information on Gigabit Community Challenge Competition

02/17/2012 04:24 PM

Eager to learn more about Governor Quinn’s recently announced Gigabit Communities Challenge? An upcoming webinar will communicate guidelines, distribute information, and collect questions about the application process.

Company moves production to U.S. due to iFiber broadband project

02/16/2012 04:24 PM

The company providing fiber optic cable to contractors constructing the iFiber network across northwest Illinois has moved production from the United Kingdom to the U.S. as a result of the project, according to company officials.

Co-op network hopes to bring broadband to more rural areas

02/16/2012 03:38 PM

A rural-electric transmission company is working toward a fiberoptic network that would reach schools, hospitals, businesses and homes in central Illinois with the kind of broadband speeds already available in more populated areas.

Jay Bartlett, president and CEO of Prairie Power Inc. in Jacksonville, said a group of rural-electric co-ops and telecommunications companies is working on establishment of a consortium to oversee the network.

Illinois Residents Invited to Participate in Important Broadband Survey

02/14/2012 04:17 PM

Results of survey will identify needs, promote statewide access to high-speed Internet

Illinois residents have the opportunity to shape the future of high-speed Internet in the state through a comprehensive survey deployed today by Partnership for a Connected Illinois. The results of the survey will serve as key components in the state’s broadband plan that will create jobs, improve medical care and enhance educational opportunities.

Statewide Competition Brings High-Speed Internet to Communities

02/14/2012 03:28 PM

Governor Pat Quinn recently announced details of the Illinois Gigabit Communities Challenge, a competition that will award up to $6 million in capital funding to the most promising high-speed Internet deployment projects.

Internet Extension in 2012 & 150th Anniversary of the Morrill Act: Connecting Residents and Businesses to Fiber and Wireless

02/08/2012 10:13 AM

Illinois has been at the forefront of bringing high speed Internet and online telecommunication and telemedicine tools to the 102 counties of Illinois.

The Rural Broadband Evolution

02/07/2012 10:59 AM

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, some 70 percent of farms with sales of at least a quarter million dollars use the Internet for farm business, and more than 40 percent of smaller farms are online too. Meanwhile, new connected technologies that use GPS guidance and satellite imagery are infiltrating farms across North America and beyond. And a growing number of farmers are using the Internet to relieve loneliness via online dating sites dedicated to the community.

Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Announces 2012 Digital Divide Grant

02/03/2012 12:40 PM

Residents of eligible Illinois communities can receive access to high-speed Internet, technology training, and more as part of the 2012 Eliminate the Digital Divide Grant, sponsored by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). Grant applications will be accepted through March 16.

Cooperative Fiber: Bringing Broadband to Rural Illinois

02/01/2012 05:11 PM

When you hear the word “fiber” you probably think about your last doctor’s visit, but these days there’s another meaning for the word. In the world of broadband Internet, fiber optics is king. Members of telephone cooperatives are quickly becoming aware of what fiber can do for them.

Broadband on schedule - Effort moves into Sterling and Fulton

01/20/2012 04:32 PM

Organizers say they are impressed with the progress of work crews laying in new fiber optic cable for the large-scale broadband project in this region, and that favorable weather in December and early January has allowed the effort to stay on schedule.

Recently, the Illinois Fiber Resources Group (iFiber) announced that the project had hit another major milestone, with work crews entering the city limits of Sterling and Fulton for the first time. All in all, the $69 million project is proceeding as planned, said Daniel Payette, this region’s outreach coordinator for the broadband effort.

Partnership for a Connected Illinois Announces Partnership with Strategic Networks Group

01/05/2012 03:14 PM

Partnership for a Connected Illinois Announces Partnership with Strategic Networks Group to Drive Meaningful Broadband Use, Innovation, and Economic Development

SNG and the Illinois Institute of Rural Affairs Engaged to help Maximize Broadband’s Potential

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, January 4, 2012 – The Partnership for a Connected Illinois , also known through its Broadband Illinois website, today announced further efforts to utilize broadband for driving better learning tools for school children, growing the State’s job base, driving innovation and increasing economic prosperity, and improving health care.

CTA Discover, the Chicago Transit Authority's new app, tracks riders, not busses or trains

12/13/2011 03:03 PM

CHICAGO | In the past, if you wanted to use the CTA app, you had to know what line you needed and where the closest stop was located. Now, you don't even have to know where you are.

By opening CTA Discover, the Chicago Transit Authority's new app, with a smart phone or a computer with Wi-Fi connection, users will instantly know their location — and all the buses and trains that are coming to the stops nearby.

Illinois Awarded $520,000 USDA Grant for Rural Health Needs

12/06/2011 09:36 AM

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack awarded Illinois with $520,000 to assist in bringing innovative health measures to medically underserved residents. The project will serve the southernmost part of Illinois.

Fiber optic project makes headway in Stephenson County

11/21/2011 10:26 AM

$69M initiative will provide high-speed Internet access to under-served areas

Broadband saves consumers on utilities

11/17/2011 12:34 PM

Smart Grid is increasingly needing broadband, and the Recovery Act is helping fund 1000 censors across the transmition grid to help prevent blackouts, Nick Sinai, the Senior Advisor to White House’s Chief Technology Officer, said.

Four Illinois telephone utilities to receive over $71 million in U.S. Ag Department funds to build, expand and improve broadband in rural areas.

11/16/2011 06:12 PM

Telephone utilities in 18 states will receive nearly $500 million in U.S. Agriculture Department funds to build, expand and improve broadband in rural areas.

FCC and private companies aim to shrink digital divide

11/11/2011 11:46 AM

The federal government announced a major effort for its initiative to get low-income students and families low-cost computers and high-speed Internet this week.

Libraries as building blocks for learning and careers in local areas across illinois – and the nation

11/03/2011 02:16 PM

Education is FCC National Broadband Plan National Need #3. Libraries are local community anchor institutions focused directly on learning, working alongside schools, museums, cultural and social service centers, business centers, and congregations. Below are Local (A), State (B), and National (C)) resources on how to best use and demonstrate through graphics, photographs and stories the daily benefits to youth, adults, seniors, businesses, and public agencies of exploiting every community library’s human and technology resources.

PCI's Rudibaugh awarded Instructor of the Year

11/02/2011 01:15 PM

Mike Rudibaugh, the director of mapping and analysis at Partnership for a Connected Illinois, was awared Instructor of the Year by the the Illinois Community College Faculty Association.

Study indicates broadband does not lower tax collections

11/01/2011 01:27 PM

Increased broadband does not lead to lower tax collections, indicates a study in Oklahoma about the relationship between broadband adoption and local retail sales tax collections.

Quinn, Preckwinkle announce $16 million broadband infrastructure investment in south Chicago suburbs

10/31/2011 11:43 AM

Gov. Quinn and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced on Friday a state and county committment to invest $16 million in south Chicago suburbs high-speed Internet connections.

Mayor Emanuel’s new tech execs talk about taking Chicago into the cyber future

10/26/2011 05:54 PM

Though it’s a long way from the Silicon Valley, Chicago has plenty to brag about in terms of its technology executives on the government level. And at the Executives’ Club of Chicago Technology Conference, held Wednesday at the Renaissance Blackstone Hotel, three of the city’s top tech officers stepped out from behind their mainframes, spreadsheets and strategy sessions to explain how they hope to bring city services and technology into the 21st Century.

Comcast offers low-cost Internet to low-income Illinois families

10/26/2011 11:11 AM

In an effort to bridge the digital divide, Comcast is offering discounted Internet service, affordable computers and training on how to use them to qualifying low-income families in school districts across the country.

CenturyLink offers Internet classes for low-income

10/25/2011 12:52 PM

CenturyLink Inc. is introducing CenturyLink Internet Basics to improve and promote broadband adoption and use by low-income consumers in Galesburg.

Bringing Broadband to All Americans

10/18/2011 11:35 AM

Although new devices/phones, the economy, and jobs seem to dominate the headlines, the Federal Communications Commission remains focused on a key priority of the Obama Administration: making sure broadband Internet is available and adopted by all Americans. Developments in the last week point toward bigger policy decisions expected by the end of October.

Howard, PCI’s Benton honored for ushering in a new era of Illinois Broadband supremacy

10/15/2011 12:53 PM

In an age when seniors might get looks of pity from younger tech heads hanging by the Apple Store, you might not realize that one woman who will turn 70 next year has been a prime mover in getting Illinois wired for the 21^st Century. Rep. Constance A. Howard (D-34th) of the Illinois General Assembly was honored Wednesday evening for her long record of accomplishment and efforts to close the digital divide and beef up the state’s broadband network. Howard led a panel of five state and federal political leaders as part of the Central Illinois Broadband Summit, held at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and hosted by Broadband Illinois.

Experts, academics strategize on building the road to broadband

10/15/2011 12:46 PM

Since the dawning days of the horseless carriage, it's been conventional wisdom in state governments that road projects put people to work. That theme resonated in 21st Century fashion at Wednesday's Central Illinois Broadband Summit, held at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign and hosted by Broadband Illinois.

Avoiding Costs, Building Assets: “One Trench” and “One Tower” Investments Improve Government Performance

10/03/2011 09:47 AM

Improving government performance is the FCC National Broadband Plan, National Need #5. It is closely linked with National Need #7, Public Safety (topic of the August 22 blog), and Increasing Civic Engagement, National Need #6. By utilizing common infrastructure, governments can facilitate faster, better, and less expensive Internet for their public works and community institutions, and private sector providers can do the same for residents and businesses. Such solutions include “one trench” and “one tower” investments for faster payback through lower costs.

PCI Submits Data to Update National Broadband Map

09/30/2011 06:34 PM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois (PCI) today made its fourth semi-annual submission of broadband coverage and community anchor institution data to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

FCC says broadband could create 2.4 million jobs

09/30/2011 11:43 AM

Increasing broadband penetration by seven percent could create an additional 2.4 million new jobs, the FCC says.

New study quantifies the impact of broadband speed on GDP

09/27/2011 04:53 PM

A new report released shows that increasing broadband speeds and broadband penetration for an economy increases the GDP.

Push to bring faster broadband to college towns; PCI chairman Charles Benton attends

09/27/2011 03:06 PM

Partnership for a Connected Illinois chairman Charles Benton attended a meeting with Google and more than 50 other companies in Chicago on Monday, aimed finding funding for faster broadband for 37 college campuses including University of Chicago and Univeristy of Illinois.

FCC Announces Public Testing of First Television White Spaces Database

09/19/2011 12:13 PM

Freeing valuable spectrum will open the doors for new industries to develop, create American jobs, and lead to new technologies and services.

National Funding Opportunities for Technology to Address Social Issues

09/19/2011 10:39 AM

The Verizon Foundation is offering grants to nonprofit organizations throughout the nation that use technology-based approaches to domestic violence prevention, improving education, literacy or healthcare.

Retailer to Sell Home Energy Management Products

09/16/2011 12:43 PM

Home energy management products can remotely control or schedule home thermostats, lights, or appliances, program a thermostat using a smart phone app or Web page, or measure the power of different appliances.

US Department of Energy Releases Roadmap for Energy Infrastructure Cybersecurity

09/16/2011 11:38 AM

The U.S. Department of Energy released the 2011 Roadmap to Achieve Energy Delivery Systems Cybersecurity outlining its goals to enhance the security and reliability of the nation’s energy infrastructure.

Public-Safety Broadband Network Could Generate Thousands of New Jobs

09/14/2011 11:26 AM

President Obama’s jobs bill could move legislation aimed at freeing up more spectrum for wireless broadband technologies and building a national broadband network for public safety.

Obama's jobs bill includes something for wireless

09/14/2011 11:00 AM

President Obama included authorization for incentive wireless spectrum auctions and spectrum reallocation for public safety as part of his American Jobs Act.

9/11 Demonstrated Need for National Broadband Network

09/13/2011 01:57 PM

A New York Senator says 9/11 demonstrated the need for a nationwide broadband network that would enable first responders to communicate across jurisdictions.

Fiber-Optic Conduits Open Possibility for Surveillance Cameras

09/13/2011 01:41 PM

The Decatur city council recently approved the installation of fiber optic conduits throughout the downtown area, which could be used to hook up surveillance cameras.

UC2B breaks ground in big broadband project

09/13/2011 11:20 AM

The Urbana-Champaign Big Broadband project, a collaborative effort to bring high-speed broadband to the community in the next year and a half, held a ground-breaking ceremony last week marking the beginning of the $29.4 million project.

PCI's Executive Director Drew Clark to speak during NATOA’s Webinar

09/09/2011 09:42 AM

Partnership for a Connected Illinois's Executive Director, Drew Clark, will speak during NATOA’s Monday, September 12th eNATOA webinar, taking place from 2:00 – 3:00 PM Eastern. The topic of this eNATOA: The End-Game in Broadband Mapping: has NTIA’s state-by-state effort worked, and can we rely on the resulting maps?

Frontier Communications Is Rolling Out Broadband Big Time

09/07/2011 01:47 PM

Additional Illinois communities now benefiting from greater broadband availability

Bloomington, Illinois – September 7, 2011 – Frontier Communications (NYSE: FTR) has been serving residents and businesses in rural Illinois communities since the late 1980’s. In July 2010, Frontier added customers in many new Illinois areas as part of a 14-state transaction with another company.

PCI hires two new fall interns

09/02/2011 08:12 PM

Staff from PCI recently attended the Foot in the Door Fair at the University of Illinois at Springfield. We are pleased to welcome our two new fall interns, Shannon McFarland and Shelva Stinson.

Including agriculture in the broadband plan

09/02/2011 06:47 PM

Illinois farmers have been taking a new approach to managing their crops, with a little innovation and a little assistance from their cell phones.

Wabash Telephone Co-op to receive $21.8 million from the USDA for rural broadband expansion

08/25/2011 04:25 PM

Wabash Telephone Cooperative has been notified it will receive an Infrastructure Loan Award of approximately $21.8 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utility Service to expand rural broadband internet access. The cooperative was one of 18 recipients chosen to receive a low interest loan to provide broadband services to unserved and underserved rural communities.

Illinois among states getting broadband funding

08/23/2011 10:05 AM

Telecommunications companies in 16 states will be sharing more than $103 million in federal funding to help expand broadband Internet access to rural America. Illinois is a big winner with a $22 million award to Wabash Telephone Cooperative to install 777 miles of fiber-optic cable. That will affect about 2,400 of its customers.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the grants and loans through its rural development office on Monday.

Facing Tempests in Today's World: Preparing for Disasters Large and Small

08/22/2011 04:53 PM

In creating "safe and healthy" communities, Federal, state and local public safety and health communities and service organizations get stronger, more intelligent and accurate in communicating with everyone as they build social networks in every street and road.

PCI Releases 'Broadband Access in Illinois' Baseline Study of Supply

08/15/2011 09:20 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, August 15, 2011 - The Partnership for a Connected Illinois on Monday released "Broadband Access in Illinois: A Baseline Snapshot," summarizing the state of broadband supply in Illinois.

The report, a product of data and geographic analysis by the PCI Data Team, provides a useful summary of the broadband supply information that has been collected and published on the Broadband Illinois web site since February 2011, and which is currently being updated with new, fresh data.

The report is available at this link.

This statewide baseline inventory for supply of broadband aims to quantify what is currently known about broadband providers within Illinois. It is an important prelude to other efforts by PCI, including PCI's Request for Proposals on Technical Assistance for Broadband Planning and Adoption. (See http://broadbandillinois.org/Use-it/Opportunities.html for further information.)

Measuring Broadband Use and Adoption is the Next Frontier in Internet Data Collection

08/09/2011 08:42 AM

By Drew Clark

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, August 9, 2011 - It's very easy to take broadband for granted. People want to go online to look up answers on Wikipedia, to watch movies on Netflix, to hang out on Facebook, or to Skype cousins across the globe -- or across town.

None of this can be done without broadband. Higher and higher speeds of internet connectivity are necessary to satisfy everyone's demand to do all of these things at once.

That's where the Partnership for a Connected Illinois comes into play.

Does USF Reform Put RUS Loans at Risk of Default?

08/08/2011 05:49 PM

Loans recently made to small telcos by the Rural Utilities Service would no longer be “financially feasible” if the FCC caps the Universal Service fund, according to data filed by the RUS with the FCC last week. The telecom group of the RUS, part of the Department of Agriculture, has historically funded telecom and broadband network construction throughout rural America

This week on the Illinois Channel: SIU President Glen Poshard shares insights on how broadband may shape higher education in Illinois

07/13/2011 07:52 AM

From Southern Illinois University in Carbondale: we hear an address by SIU President Glenn Poshard where he shares his insights as to how broadband communications may shape the future of higher education in Illinois.

This week on the Illinois Channel: Graham Richard discusses broadband's impact on the economy of a community

07/13/2011 07:46 AM

This week on the Illinois Channel:

From Southern Illinois University in Carbondale we hear from Graham Richard, the former Mayor of Fort Wayne, Indiana, who embraced broadband communications as a way to improve city services and attract more businesses to his community. Mr. Richard spoke to a broadband conference at SIU about the ability of broadband communications to improve the business climate for a community.

Construction firm hired for broadband project

07/11/2011 09:59 AM

Freeport, Ill. - PirTano Construction Company, based in Addison, has been hired as the first contractor for the $69 million project to establish a new broadband network in this region.

Connected Living Program to get seniors online

07/11/2011 09:49 AM

Connected Living Program to get seniors online at the Western Illinois Area on Aging Office. Innovative technology with personal training allows tenants to explore and use the web.

Library technology grants aimed at jobs

07/05/2011 04:31 PM

Freeport is among 41 libraries and community college learning resource centers that will share in a nearly $1 million grant awarded to the Illinois State Library to enhance broadband computer access to citizens across Illinois.

New Grant Opportunity: Digital Media for Learning in Libraries and Museums

07/01/2011 03:35 PM

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation identifies YouMedia as a model for libraries across the nation. The foundation’s new grant program, in conjunction with the federal Institute of Museum and and Library Services, plans to open 30 YouMedia learning environments in libraries and museums nationwide, said Connie Yowell, the foundation's director of education. Up to thirty prototype labs at up to $100,000 per lab will be funded. The deadline is August 15, 2011.

5 Steps for Economic Vitality – Broadband as Nervous System of the Body Politic

07/01/2011 12:30 PM

Better Internet is good business for everyone in Illinois -- residents, business and public institutions alike. Economic opportunity – for all residents, businesses, communities and regions -- is National Need #2 in FCC National Broadband Plan. Broadband, as the nervous system of our local and regional economies, improves communication "nodes" linking and building flexibility and responsiveness in all parts of a healthy community's natural, built and people environment.

Healthcare and a Digital Card in Every Pocket

06/29/2011 08:57 AM

Healthcare and a Digital Card in every pocket

It is fit that Broadband Illinois – with its focus on Broadband for Better Lives -- begin its regular Broadband Voices Blog with the topic Life and Health. Healthcare is also National Need #1 in FCC National Broadband Plan issued in 2010. http://www.broadband.gov/

ETeams Bring Leaders Together to Improve Jobs, Education, Healthcare and More

06/27/2011 05:02 PM

Wednesday Webinar Series Continues June 29 at 2 p.m.

Video clip of President Glenn Poshard speaking at the Broadband Summit available

06/24/2011 11:44 AM

SIU President Glenn Poshard speaks on the accomplishments of improving high-speed Internet access in Southern Illinois, during a regional summit Thursday at SIU Carbondale.

Bringing Millions of Dollars for Broadband to Southern Illinois

06/24/2011 10:33 AM

With nearly $250 Million in Federal and State funds going toward building high-speed broadband networks across Illinois, we hear a panel discuss how this could change the way we operate our schools, our businesses, and our government services at the Broadband Summit in Southern Illinois on June 2nd, 2011.

Uploaded by IllinoisChannelTV on Jun 21, 2011

PCI’s Eden to discuss local importance of eTeams in broadband development

06/13/2011 02:16 PM

U of I Extension's 13th Annual Meeting on June 15

PCI’s Eden to discuss local importance of eTeams in broadband development

06/13/2011 02:11 PM

CHAMPAIGN - Jeff Eden, Outreach Director for Partnership for a Connected Illinois, will discuss the importance of local involvement in the advancement of broadband development at the University of Illinois Extension’s 13^th annual Leadership Conference on Wednesday, June 15.

Eden and PCI are in the process of creating a statewide network of Regional eTeams for the purpose of convening, aggregating demand and developing supply side solutions. The session will cover the overall status of this initiative, and the importance of local involvement.

The conference will take place on Wednesday, June 15 at the I Hotel in Champaign. PCI is a non-profit organization created by the State of Illinois to implement a statewide high speed Internet deployment strategy and demand creation initiative.

Information about the Leadership Conference can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/illinoisleadership/index.cfm

Building the Gigabit State in Southern Illinois

06/02/2011 07:18 AM

By Drew Clark

CARBONDALE, Illinois, June 2, 2011 – Boiled down to its bare essentials, a major research university like Southern Illinois University here needs three things to prosper: good students, great faculty, and world-class internet bandwidth.

The only major research university in the southern half of Illinois, SIU has the first two out of three. But according to John Koropchak, a professor of chemistry and Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Dean at the university, the availability of bandwidth for SIU maxes out at 380 Megabits per second (Mbps).

Guidelines by the National Science Foundation call for bandwidth availability to be 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) to 2.5 Gbps. That’s up to seven times the bandwidth currently available.

National Experts to Convene at Broadband Summit in Carbondale on June 2

05/20/2011 03:53 PM

Local, state and national leaders will convene at the Illinois Broadband Summit on Thursday, June 2 at the Southern Illinois University Student Center in Carbondale. The public can attend in person, at remote participation sites in Springfield and Chicago, or by watching live internet streaming.

Wednesday Webinar Series Continues June 1

05/20/2011 10:11 AM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois will host its next Wednesday Webinar on June 1 at 2 p.m. CST, on the subject of "Community Anchor Institution and Broadband Access."

Webinar Slides Available for Download

05/10/2011 08:55 AM

Slides from the Partnership for a Connected Illinois' Wednesday Webinar events are now available online for download.

Wednesday Webinar Series Continues May 18

05/05/2011 04:31 PM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois will host its next Wednesday Webinar on May 18 at 2 p.m. CST. All who are interested in the advancement of broadband in Illinois are invited to participate on the subject of "Developing Statewide Baseline Data for Research."

NTIA's State Broadband Initiative and the Illinois Broadband Map

05/04/2011 08:29 AM

By Drew Clark

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, May 4, 2011 - Later today, at 2 p.m. CT, the Partnership for a Connected Illinois will kick off our "Wednesday Webinar" series, beginning with a discussion about the Illinois Broadband Map. Registration for this event is free.

PCI feels so passionately about the Illinois Broadband Map because data and information should be central to helping promote sound policies, and because evidence suggests that broadband is a key driver of job creation and economic activity.

Clearwave Launches Website and Newsletter

05/03/2011 11:03 AM

Illinois Broadband Opportunities Partnership awardee Clearwave Communications launches website and offers newsletter about project located in southern Illinois.

Illinois Legal Aid Online Celebrates 10th Anniversary

04/30/2011 09:10 AM

Non-profit organization celebrates access to justice through the use of technology.

Illinois Leads the Nation in USDA Broadband Investment — Investments To Spur Job Creation and Economic Opportunity in Rural America

04/27/2011 06:27 PM

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced support for telecommunications projects in seven states to improve broadband service to rural residents and businesses. Projects selected include an $8.7 million award to the Alhambra-Grantfork Telephone Company, in Alhambra, Ill., and a $3.4 million loan to Woodhull Telephone Company, in Woodhull, Ill.

Executive Director Drew Clark Testifies Before House Telecommunications Committee

04/27/2011 02:44 PM

Committee Convenes to hear testimony concerning public investment in broadband infrastructure in Illinois.

Broadband Illinois to Stream eChicago Events Live

04/19/2011 11:07 AM

The Partnership for a Connected Illinois will sponsor the live internet streaming and archival recording of the eChicago events in Chicago this week. The stream can be viewed at http://www.digibridge.net/echicago/.

Partnership for a Connected Illinois to Kick-Off Wednesday Webinar Series on May 4

04/15/2011 06:02 PM

Join into the discussion of Illinois’ new broadband map and how it will help prepare our state for a brighter future. Find out more at our first Wednesday Webinar on May 4.

Thoughts On Broadband, the Internet, Business Incubation and Jobs

04/12/2011 01:03 PM

Part of President Obama’s campaign platform was a “stimulus program” designed to create jobs as quickly as possible through the funding of “shovel ready” projects. There were WPA-like objectives in the rhetoric, which would put Americans to work repairing roads, bridges, airports and infrastructure. Unemployment was at record highs bolstering the demand for jobs and often expressed through the campaign rhetoric of “Jobs, Jobs and Jobs.” Another public policy objective also garnered a great deal of attention: an assumption that broadband availability in rural areas was important to the regions future economic development. In fact, the correlation between broadband availability and economic development is very similar to the 1936 Rural Electrification Act (REA) which underscored the importance of, and secured funding for, an infrastructure supporting electricity. Much of the campaign rhetoric about the need for public support of broadband deployment was similar to the arguments used for the REA.

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This paper is third party research and does not necessarily represent the views or receive the endorsement of The Partnership for a Connected Illinois. It is presented for consideration as a public service to the broadband community.

Charles Benton at National Conference for Media Reform

04/08/2011 05:33 PM

Charles Benton, was interviewed this week while he was in attendance at the National Conference for Media Reform in Boston.

Economic Development Conference to focus on Regional Internet Project

03/11/2011 02:35 PM

The 16^th annual Southern Illinois Economic Development Conference will be held on March 17^th at the John A. Logan Conference Center in Carterville, Illinois from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM. The conference topic will be “Southern Illinois On-Line" Regional Broadband & E-Commerce Opportunities” and will be focused around the 740-mile, high-speed fiber optic network being constructed by Clearwave Communications.

Community Connect Program Grant Application Deadlines and Funding Levels

03/11/2011 01:02 PM

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Utilities Service (RUS) announces the availability of $25 million in funding for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011 for the Community Connect Grant Program. This notice is being issued prior to passage of a final Appropriations Act for FY 2011, to allow potential applicants time to submit proposals and give the Agency time to process applications within the current fiscal year. For FY 2010, Congress appropriated approximately $17.9 million.

Illinois broadband on the move—and showing no signs of slowing down, right to the last mile

03/08/2011 04:30 AM

Going the last mile: Jeff Eden of PCI stressed the need for making sure last-mile connections get the proper attention, and how any broadband plans for the state won't be complete without attention to the last-mile details.

Beltway broadband experts praise Illinois awardees for their broadband vision and focus

03/08/2011 04:24 AM

"Light years ahead": Joanne Hovis of NATOA came all the way from Washington to praise Illinois for being "light yeras ahead" of other states in developing its broadband plan and network.

Illinois ARRA Broadband Awardees Looking to the Future of Internet in Illinois

03/07/2011 03:53 PM

While others bemoaned what the Great Recession might do to halt all progress on the broadband front, two Illinois-bred politicians—Gov. Pat Quinn and President Barack Obama—were already working to turn the Land of Lincoln into a land that’s digitally linked in. The fruits of their combined efforts, as witnessed by close to 100 state leaders from the public and private sector, were in evidence Monday at Northern Illinois University’s Naperville campus, as Broadbandillinois.org hosted presentations by four awardees at its regional meeting.

Broadband Illinois to Co-Host Case Studies of Stimulus Funding on Monday, March 7

03/07/2011 10:20 AM

NAPERVILLE, Illinois, March 7, 2011 – Broadband Illinois, formally known as the Partnership for a Connected Illinois, will co-host a summit on Monday, March 7, 2011, on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act broadband investments at the Northern Illinois University in Naperville, Illinois. Beginning at 2 p.m. ET, or 1 p.m. CT, the event will be webcast live on http://broadbandillinois.org. Viewing the event online is free and open to the public. No registration is necessary to view the webcast.

Second Webinar Added Wednesday, February 23rd at 1:00 PM

02/23/2011 01:04 PM

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is announcing the release of the Fiscal Year 2011 Request for Application (RFA) for the Eliminate the Digital Divide Grant Program (EDD).

Illinois and the National Broadband Map... Make That a Mashup!

02/21/2011 02:21 PM

By Drew Clark

SPRINGFIELD, February 21, 2011 - President Abraham Lincoln began his political career here with a passionate interest in infrastructure improvements.

America knows President Lincoln today because his belief in equal opportunity. What connects that which we know about Lincoln and that which brought him into public life?

BroadbandIllinois.org Version 2.0

02/17/2011 08:42 AM

Less than half a year ago we introduced the Partnership for a Connected Illinois to the web with a starter site: broadbandillinois.org. Today we introduce broadbandillinois.org 2.0.

Broadband Illinois Launches New Web Site Promoting Tools, Research and Opportunity

02/17/2011 08:36 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, February 17, 2011 - Illinois residents can now discover who offers high-speed internet service in their neighborhood with a single mouse click or touch on a smart phone.

They do this by visiting http://broadbandillinois.org, a new site launched Thursday by the Partnership for a Connected Illinois (or Broadband Illinois), a non-profit group based in Springfield.

Photos from Illinois Broadband Awardees Event

02/16/2011 11:38 AM

Photos from Illinois Broadband Awardees Event on September 27th and 28th.

Illinois Broadband Awardees Headed to Washington; Aim to Build State Model for Broadband Deployment

02/16/2011 11:19 AM

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, October 27, 2010 – Illinois Recipients of the Broadband Technology Opportunity Program (BTOP) awards, part of the federal government's stimulus program, will be headed to the nation's capital for workshops on November 9th and 10th.