Critical Review of Public–Private Partnership Business Models for Enhancing Broadband Initiatives in the United States

Abstract

Broadband infrastructure across the United States is at various stages, ranging from unserved areas to gigabit network cities with fiber optic. Despite broadband being essential for access to education, economic transactions, and many other interactions in our society, expanding coverage in rural areas remains a barrier to reducing inequality and closing the digital gap. To resolve this problem, the public sector has collaborated with the private sector through partnerships, enabling rural areas to leverage broadband projects with money, technology, and industry expertise from the private sector. While efforts are being made to close the digital gap, discussions on how to deliver the project well under various conditions are necessary. In this respect, this research investigates public–private partnership (P3) business models for enhancing broadband initiatives in the United States. The results are derived based on interviews with subject-matter experts and extensive literature review, providing rationales for previous P3 broadband business models. This study will contribute to the body of knowledge by promoting partnerships between private entities and the public to expand broadband initiatives in unserved and underserved communities.