Agile Networks and Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) announced a new agreement to bring broadband Internet access to rural areas in Ohio, including 110,000 currently unserved people and expanding access in underserved rural areas. The partnership is part of Microsoft's Airband Initiative, which is focused on extending broadband access to 2 million unserved people in rural America by 2022.
This partnership leverages Agile's network of telecommunications infrastructure throughout the state and technology including TV white spaces.
"People across the state, no matter where they choose to live, work and send their children to school, should have the same access to strong, reliable broadband service," said Kyle Quillen, Agile Networks founder and CEO. "This partnership will have an impact on more than 900,000 people across the state of Ohio, of whom 110,000 completely lack access to broadband. We're excited to partner with Microsoft as part of this national initiative to ensure everyone has access to the information they need, when they need it."
"In today's digital economy, broadband access has become a necessity across industries including healthcare, agriculture, business and education," said Shelley McKinley, Microsoft's head of technology and corporate responsibility. "Our partnership with Agile will help deliver broadband Internet access to rural communities across Ohio so that they can take advantage of today's and tomorrow's opportunities and the latest cloud technologies."
By equipping its towers with TV white spaces equipment, Agile's efforts, in partnership with Microsoft, is intended to enhance public safety interoperability across Ohio, while providing competitive, affordable broadband access options to rural consumers and businesses, as well as solutions for fixed and mobile wireless carriers.
Other ISPs that are participating in Microsoft's Airband Initiative include RTO Wireless, Declaration Networks Group and Packerland Broadband.