The Oregon Broadband Equity Coalition (OBEC) is a statewide group of organizations, Tribal Nations, Internet Service Providers, community members, and business and government representatives working together to promote access to broadband with the necessary tools and skills to be proficient and safe.
The coalition works on broadband and digital equity issues affecting covered populations as defined in the Digital Equity Act of 2021. These populations include:
- Households with incomes at or below 150% of the poverty line
- Individuals 60 years of age or older
- Veterans
- Individuals with disabilities
- Individuals with barriers to the English language, including English language learners and those with low literacy
- Members of a racial or ethnic minority group
- Primarily reside in a rural area
- Incarcerated individuals, other than individuals who are incarcerated in a Federal correctional facility
Mission Statement
Empowering Oregonians, communities, and Tribal Nations through comprehensive digital equity, our mission is to bridge the gap between broadband infrastructure expansion and technology adoption for all. We do this by embracing the practices of Digital Inclusion, using science-based knowledge to create trusted local expertise that will empower communities through self-determination to improve digital readiness and adoption for all. Our statewide coalition is dedicated to fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and readiness to ensure that every corner of Oregon thrives in the digital age.
Vision Statement
We envision a digitally equitable Oregon where broadband access is not just about infrastructure, but a catalyst for positive change in people's lives. Our coalition strives to create a framework that tailors solutions to the diverse needs of communities, guided by evidence and experience. By championing local efforts and facilitating coordination, we aim to transform digital readiness across the state, leaving no one behind in the journey towards a connected, informed, and empowered society. Together, we build a future where technology enhances the well-being of everyone in Oregon.
What We Do
We work on digital equity issues across Oregon, including:
- Broadband Affordability
- Internet Accessibility
- Digital Device Availability
- Digital Literacy
We also advocate for digital equity issues at the county, state, regional and national level.
How We Do Our Work
- We build relationships and encourage cross-disciplinary collaborations.
- We share best practices and resources.
- We leverage our combined networks to spread news and information about digital equity in Oregon.
- We help advocate for digital equity, digital literacy, accessibility and affordability at the state and national level.
Inclusive Representation
OBEC strives for inclusive representation from all Oregon counties, Tribal Nations, metro/urban and rural communities, across a variety of sectors, including: education, health care, government, workforce development, economic development, precision agriculture, emergency management, housing, food systems, travel/recreation and more.
We are an open coalition and anyone is welcome to join, including members of the public. There is no fee or other requirement to join.
OBEC Meetings
OBEC meetings are free and open to anyone interested in addressing digital equity and inclusion issues and the digital divide.
- Our statewide coalition member meetings are held every 4th Thursday of each month January – October, 3rd Thursday of November and December.
- OBEC Steering Committee meetings are every 2nd Thursday of each month.
- OBEC work group meetings are held as needed.