
The Maryland Broadband Cooperative (MDBC) is leading efforts to build high-speed computer networks in Maryland. Their focus continues to be on under-served communities in rural Maryland. Several communities may ultimately see improved service because of new fiber optic lines that are expected to be built in neighboring areas.
KDC’s work with broadband began about 10 years ago, primarily with the Lower Shore Broadband Cooperative, a cooperative that served a limited geography. MDBC was formed a few years before the Lower Shore group discontinued operations. They worked closely with Lower Shore to offer services to their members. MDBC is a Non-Profit (501C12) charged with offering, through its membership, expanded network services around the state.
It is a member-owned and operated business providing universal access to a fiber optic network. The network is designed to deliver broadband across the rural communities in Maryland. The cooperative fosters economic development and is supported by its’ members who provide “last mile services”. The MDBC received funding to build the infrastructure through the Maryland Rural Broadband Coordination Board. Their mission is to expand the broadband footprint all across Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic Region.
The presence of a fiber optic network in a region or community can be a driver for economic growth and jobs. It is an enabling resource that, if successfully utilized, attracts new employment opportunities and contribute towards improved health care, education and government services.
The MDBC is positioned to work with local communities and other partners to develop the full economic potential of this high-technology network. Through a regional approach, local businesses and government work together to exploit the high-speed network. The cooperative is in partnership with over 90 members with a majority of members offering last mile services to consumers. Last mile services are the final leg of the network ending at the customer’s location.
KDC’s work with broadband began about 10 years ago, primarily with the Lower Shore Broadband Cooperative, a cooperative that served a limited geography. MDBC was formed a few years before the Lower Shore group discontinued operations. They worked closely with Lower Shore to offer services to their members. MDBC is a Non-Profit (501C12) charged with offering, through its membership, expanded network services around the state.
It is a member-owned and operated business providing universal access to a fiber optic network. The network is designed to deliver broadband across the rural communities in Maryland. The cooperative fosters economic development and is supported by its’ members who provide “last mile services”. The MDBC received funding to build the infrastructure through the Maryland Rural Broadband Coordination Board. Their mission is to expand the broadband footprint all across Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic Region.
The presence of a fiber optic network in a region or community can be a driver for economic growth and jobs. It is an enabling resource that, if successfully utilized, attracts new employment opportunities and contribute towards improved health care, education and government services.
The MDBC is positioned to work with local communities and other partners to develop the full economic potential of this high-technology network. Through a regional approach, local businesses and government work together to exploit the high-speed network. The cooperative is in partnership with over 90 members with a majority of members offering last mile services to consumers. Last mile services are the final leg of the network ending at the customer’s location.