The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of having access to reliable and fast internet connectivity. With the rise of remote work, online learning, tele-medicine, and e-commerce, it has become increasingly clear that broadband internet is not a luxury but a necessity for modern life. Unfortunately, not all communities in South Carolina have equal access to high-speed internet, which can create a digital divide that exacerbates inequality and limits opportunities.

To address this issue, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) and the South Carolina Department of Administration (Admin) have launched a statewide initiative called Get Connected SC. The goal of this initiative is to expand broadband access to UN-served and under-served communities throughout the state, with a focus on rural areas and low-income households.

Get Connected SC is a collaborative effort that brings together various stakeholders, including internet service providers, local governments, community organizations, and educational institutions. By working together, these partners can leverage their resources and expertise to overcome the technical, financial, and regulatory barriers that have prevented broadband expansion in the past.

One of the key components of Get Connected SC is a mapping tool that helps identify areas with the greatest need for broadband access. This tool uses a combination of data sources, such as the Federal Communications Commission’s broadband coverage maps and community input, to create a comprehensive view of the state’s internet infrastructure. By using this data, the initiative can target its efforts on areas that are most in need of investment.

Another important aspect of Get Connected SC is the funding mechanism that supports broadband expansion. The initiative uses a combination of federal and state grants, private investment, and public-private partnerships to finance infrastructure projects. This funding is critical because many internet service providers are hesitant to invest in rural areas, where the population density is low and the return on investment is uncertain. By providing financial incentives, Get Connected SC can encourage providers to expand their networks to areas that might otherwise be overlooked.

Get Connected SC has already made significant progress in expanding broadband access across the state. As of 2023, the initiative has facilitated the deployment of broadband infrastructure to more than 40,000 households and businesses, with plans to connect an additional 30,000 in the next year. The initiative has also helped create jobs in the broadband industry, as new infrastructure projects require skilled workers to design, build, and maintain networks.

The benefits of broadband expansion go beyond just faster internet speeds. Access to reliable broadband can improve health outcomes, increase educational opportunities, and boost economic growth. For example, telemedicine services can connect patients in rural areas with healthcare providers in urban areas, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialized care. Online learning platforms can provide students with access to educational resources and opportunities that might not be available in their local communities. And e-commerce platforms can help small businesses reach new customers and grow their revenues.

Get Connected SC is an important initiative that can help bridge the digital divide in South Carolina. By expanding broadband access to UN-served and under-served communities, the initiative can improve the quality of life for thousands of residents and create new opportunities for economic growth. As the initiative continues to gain momentum, it will be exciting to see the positive impact that it has on communities throughout the state.