BROADBAND &
DIGITAL ACCESS
Broadband Mission
Since 2016, the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) has remained committed to advancing broadband equity by expanding reliable, high-speed internet access and digital skills across the region. As an early advocate for broadband as an essential utility, MBEP has worked to close the digital divide by fostering collaboration among local governments, ISPs, and community organizations to drive innovative solutions that economically empower our communities.
As part of this commitment, MBEP serves as the Executive Director of the Central Coast Broadband Consortium (CCBC), a regional coalition dedicated to expanding broadband infrastructure across Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. Through CCBC, MBEP facilitates collaboration between local governments, internet service providers (ISPs), community organizations to ensure local broadband priorities maximize public investment.
Why It Matters
Broadband isn’t just connectivity—it’s the foundation for modern commerce. Expanding access increases regional competitiveness, attracts high-wage employers, and creates opportunities for underserved communities—fueling long-term economic growth.
Key Achievements
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Supported $90M+ in Broadband Infrastructure and Digital Equity Investments
Through serving as the Executive Director of the Central Coast Broadband Consortium (CCBC), MBEP provided technical assistance to ISPs and local governments to leverage state and federal funding for high-speed internet deployment.
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Co-Founded and Led the South Salinas Valley Broadband Authority (SSVBA)
Established a joint-powers authority among five municipalities to develop open-access municipal broadband in Soledad, Gonzales, Greenfield, King City, and unincorporated Monterey County. Learn more about SSVBA.
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Convened Community Roundtables with Congressman Panetta (CA-19)
Brought together local leaders, ISPs, and policymakers to align broadband priorities, address infrastructure gaps, and advocate for strategic investments in the Central Coast.
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Served as Grant Administrator for Key Digital Inclusion Projects
Managed projects for Loaves, Fishes, and Computers (LFC), including the 3CE Digital Equity Initiative and CASF Adoption Account projects, which provided digital literacy training and devices to underserved communities.
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Enabled Free Wireless Internet for San Jerardo Farmworker Community
Partnered with Cruzio, state, and county agencies to deliver no-cost broadband to over 250 residents in Salinas.
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Developed High-Impact GIS Maps with CSU Chico
Created broadband coverage maps to advocate for improved service across the region, ensuring data-driven decision-making for infrastructure investments.
Strategic Action Plan
MBEP’s Broadband & Digital Opportunity Strategy focuses on the following priorities:
- Expanding Infrastructure – Advocating for middle- and last-mile broadband deployment projects to connect rural and underserved communities.
- Accelerating Affordability & Adoption – Supporting policies and programs that ensure broadband access is not only available but affordable and effectively used.
- Fostering Public-Private Collaboration – Working with ISPs, local governments, and community organizations to develop scalable broadband solutions.
- Driving Policy & Advocacy – Engaging in state and federal initiatives to push for equitable broadband funding and regulatory improvements.
- Leveraging Data & Innovation – Utilizing GIS mapping, broadband speed testing, and digital equity assessments to guide targeted interventions.