High Speed Internet Deployment Strategy
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity seeks to identify a results-orientated nonprofit organization that has a record of success in developing and implementing high speed Internet deployment strategies and demand creation initiatives. The purpose of this initiative is to encourage and support the partnership of the public and private sectors in the continued growth of high speed Internet and information technology for the State's residents and businesses. The goals of the Illinois high speed Internet deployment strategy include:
Ensuring that Illinois residents and businesses have access to affordable and reliable high speed Internet service;
Achieving improved technology literacy, increased computer ownership, and home high speed Internet use among Illinois residents and businesses;
Establishing and empowering local technology planning teams throughout Illinois to plan for improved technology use across multiple community sectors; and
Establishing and sustaining an environment for high speed Internet access and technology investment throughout Illinois.
The deployment and adoption of high speed Internet services and information technology has resulted in enhanced economic development and public safety for the State's communities, improved health care and educational opportunities, and a better quality of life for the State's residents. Continued progress in the deployment and adoption of high speed Internet services and information technology is vital to ensuring that Illinois remains competitive and continues to create business and job growth. The High Speed Internet Services and Information Technology Act (Public Act 95-684) requires the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to enlist a nonprofit organization to implement a comprehensive, statewide high speed Internet deployment strategy and demand creation initiative (strategy).
