
Frequently Asked Questions
What is broadband?
Broadband includes several high-speed transmission technologies such as: Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) Cable Modem. The definition of broadband has changed and will change again in the future. However, according to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the current definition of broadband internet is a minimum of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload speeds. Broadband provides high speed internet access via multiple types of technologies including fiber optics, wireless, cable, DSL and satellite.
How has the disparity in broadband impacted disenfranchised communities?
What is the goal of the South Shore Connects Broadband Initiative?
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Develop a strategic plan which identifies the South Shore community needs relative to Broadband Internet - Access, Adoption and Use -
Create an action plan for short and long-term broadband service improvements: -
Collaborate with current providers to deliver the speeds/advertised and paid for by our residents/businesses. Explore usage of others fiber/high-speed internet for South Shore residents.
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Play an integral role in shifting the paradigm by building thought leaders in our community who recognize the importance of broadband internet access, adoption and use. -
Partner with Benton Institute and other philanthropic organizations to identify opportunities for South Shore to improve internet accessibility, affordability and use.
What are the benefits of having high-speed broadband in homes?
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Working from home
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Employment hiring
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Digital health resources and Telemedicine
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Online Learning
What is the cohort grant TheNNA received from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Office of Broadband?
The Illinois Connected Communities is a partnership among the Illinois Office of Broadband, the Evanston-based Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, and local philanthropy. The program addresses the needs/challenges of broadband access, adoption and use in South Shore, designed to engage the first-year cohort of communities through best practice curriculum and expert consultation. What’s more, the program was created to assist some of the most underserved areas of the state with building broadband capacity, according to Gov. Pritzker’s Office.
What role will The Neighborhood Network Alliance (TheNNA) play in improving broadband service in the South Shore community?