Internet Alliance Forms Arkansas Chapter

A group of business and trade leaders have formed a new Arkansas chapter of the Internet Innovation Alliance (IIA).

Arkansas IIA seeks to promote broadband access and adoption throughout the state. IIA is a national coalition of business and non-profit organizations committed to helping our country achieve universal broadband.

“Broadband drives opportunity in everything, from our economy to education and entrepreneurship to healthcare,” said John Chadwell, Executive Director of the Newport Economic Development Commission and charter member of Arkansas IIA. “High-speed Internet helps businesses connect to new markets and students access educational resources anywhere in the world. These opportunities should be available to every family and business person in the state, no matter where they live.”

Others joining Chadwell as charter members of Arkansas IIA are Polly Martin, President of the Arkansas Grocers and Retail Merchants Association; Randy Zook, President and CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber/Associated Industries of Arkansas; Montine McNulty, Executive Director of the Arkansas Hospitality Association; Ed Clifford, President of the Bentonville/Bella Vista Chamber of Commerce; Raymond Burns, President and CEO of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce; Perry Webb, President and CEO of the Springdale Chamber of Commerce; and Brian Thompson, Director of External Affairs for the Cross County Chamber of Commerce.

The Internet Innovation Alliance supports reforming the Universal Service Fund to include broadband, more efficient use of spectrum and the proposed merger of AT&T and T-Mobile.

Find out more about the IIA at www.internetinnovation.org.