A Technology Action Plan for South Carolina’s Promise Zone

November 22, 2017

The public is invited to attend a presentation of a Technology Action Plan for South Carolina’s Promise Zone on Monday, November 27.

Representatives from the SouthernCarolina Regional Economic Alliance, USDA Rural Development Office, internet service providers, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will be on hand as Connected Nation unveils what can be done to improve high-speed internet access, adoption, and use within the region.

“As a South Carolina native, I understand all too well how our families and small businesses need to access technologies that can improve their quality of life and economic sustainability,” said FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, who will be attending the Nov. 27 event. “In today’s modern world having robust broadband is crucial. It can connect families to better healthcare and jobs. It is the key to better educational opportunities for students, and it can provide direct access to a global market to our small businesses no matter where they are located.”

The event will be hosted at the South Carolina Business Center, located at 54 Irving Street, Barnwell, SC 91812. It will take place from 10 a.m. until noon. Attendees will hear from those involved in developing the Technology Action Plan and learn what “next steps” have been identified as priority.

“It took us months to understand the broadband landscape within the Promise Zone,” said Jim Stritzinger, Director of Connect South Carolina, a local subsidiary of Connected Nation. “Working with area representatives, we gathered data from a number of sectors to help determine the best approach to improving access in the region overall. This informational session will be a chance for both businesses and residents to learn about efforts to expand broadband across the area.”

“Technology and the ability to connect globally are key to giving our industries, businesses, and schools a competitive edge in this ever-changing international landscape,” said Sandra D. Bland, SC Promise Zone Coordinator for SouthernCarolina Alliance. “In fact, it’s the great equalizer, leveling the playing field for our rural areas. With state-of-the-art broadband access, it doesn’t matter where a business, school, or retail operation is located. We can access information, goods, and services instantly and do business around the world. The broadband initiative will be a game-changer for the SouthernCarolina Alliance region.”

Please note: Commissioner Clyburn may be available to talk with the media one-on-one as time allows. Please contact us in advance to arrange an interview time for your news outlet.