Day 4: eNCore is a game changer for rural North Carolina
An encore is a powerful way to leave a lasting impression on an audience. The underlying concept is a request by those around you for more, which is what too many underserved and overlooked communities in the state have been desperate to obtain for many years without high-speed internet.
MCNC is one of the country’s largest and oldest research and education networks. Now, together with Fybe, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Roanoke Cooperative, are spearheading an innovative collaboration now known as eNCore. Through this new organization, eNCore will bridge the connectivity gap for residential and business communities alike – providing access to the modern opportunities and essential resources to fully participate in today’s growing digital economy.
Transformation through Collaboration
We all understand the transformative power of broadband. Bridging the digital divide can change the lives of so many in North Carolina. But broadband is more than just technology; it’s about equity.
Reliable and affordable broadband is a cornerstone of economic growth, education and community development. It connects us to the world, fostering innovation and collaboration.
North Carolina’s broadband challenges require bold strategies and action. eNCore was formed as a shared call to action to remedy the technology inequities that keep many in North Carolina from reaching their full potential. This innovative approach to addressing digital inequities is where eNCore provides a key differentiator.
The Secret Sauce
Addressing digitally-distressed areas is an economic and social priority! As a non-profit collaborative, eNCore and its member organizations will provide essential broadband infrastructure and services to empower businesses and individuals to ensure no community gets left behind. Community-driven, scalable models like eNCore with a clear mission that encourages open participation and collaboration from all levels will drive North Carolina’s economy to new heights.
On a recent MCNC Community Connect podcast, MCNC President and CEO Tracy Doaks was joined by Marshall Cherry, Chief Executive Officer of Roanoke Cooperative; Bo Coughlin, Chief Operations Officer at FYBE; and Jim Nester, Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Director of Marketing and Client Advocacy at MCNC, to discuss the story behind the creation of eNCore.
Next-Gen Connectivity for a New Year
North Carolina is poised to become a national leader, ranking in the top five states for high-speed internet adoption. As North Carolinians in every corner of the state can access, afford and use high-speed internet, they can take advantage of career, education and health care resources.
eNCore will leverage MCNC and Fybe’s core competencies with those of other partners to deploy and operate high-speed broadband networks that advance the social, operational and economic interests.
Smart investments to bridge the digital divide can change the lives of so many, and the work being done at eNCore right now is not just generational but historic. Though eNCore is just getting started, the vision is comprehensive and will be an important driving force for economic development in North Carolina next year and in the years ahead.
