Ford Foundation and Schmidt Futures
The Ford Foundation and Schmidt Futures engaged HR&A to develop and launch the National Broadband Resource Hub, supporting government and nonprofit leaders implementing broadband programs during unprecedented federal investment. Our platform provided curated resources, peer networking opportunities, and expert advisory services, fostering collaboration among broadband leaders nationwide before transitioning to long-term management by the Pew Charitable Trusts, the Center on Rural Innovation, and Next Century Cities.
Historic levels of federal broadband funding created an urgent need for accessible best practices, peer networks, and expert guidance to help leaders design and implement successful programs. HR&A led intensive platform development over three months, conducting user research and iterating on experience design to create an accessible hub. Working alongside CTC Technology & Energy, we built three core offerings: a Resource Library with over 700 curated guides and reports; a Community Conversations forum enabling leaders to connect with peers nationwide; and a Help Desk providing free advisory services from subject-matter experts.
HR&A then led member outreach, content development, community management, and events to activate the platform and build a thriving user community. By minimizing barriers to peer connection across localities, the NBRH fostered constructive dialogue and sharing of best practices between governments and nonprofits nationwide. Following successful launch and community building, HR&A supported the platform’s transition to long-term management, ensuring sustainability as broadband leaders work to bridge the digital divide across America.
