Connected Nation

Connected Nation states on its website that it "specializes in increasing broadband access and computer literacy. We are closing the digital divide. Through public-private partnerships, we make the cost of technology expansion go down and the demand for technology go up. It is a comprehensive approach that delivers dramatic results and creates new opportunities for Americans to live and work with more ease and benefit."

According to Joker.com, the group's website was registered on March 5, 2005 by a Texas-based web company.

Funding
It lists eight people as comprising its "leadership team" and a further 22 staff on its website, so must have a substantial operating budget. However, Connected Nation provides no details of who is funding the organization on its website. While a biographical note of the group's CEO states that it is a "non-profit organization", it is not listed in Guidestar, a database on U.S. non-profit groups.

In a profile prepared for journalists, Connected Nation poses as one of its "Frequently Asked Questions" "How is Connected Nation funded?" it cryptically responds that "Connected Nation is primarily funded through public-private partnerships." It provides no details of what exactly the partnerships are or who they are with.

Personnel

 * Brian Mefford, Chief Executive Officer
 * Mark McElroy, COO and SVP, Communications
 * Andrew McNeill, Vice President of Program Development
 * Laura Taylor, Chief Analyst
 * Tom Ferree, Chief Information Officer & Vice President of Project Management
 * Brent Legg Director of State & Local Initiatives
 * Phillip K. Brown, National Policy Director
 * Raquel Noriega, Director of Strategic Partnerships

Contact Details
Connected Nation 444 North Capitol Street Washington, DC 20001 Email: info AT connectednation.com Phone: 877-846-7710 Website: http://www.connectednation.com/

External Articles

 * Art Brodsky, "Connect Kentucky Provides Uncertain Model for Federal Legislation", Public Knowledge, January 9, 2008.