Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Connected Nation, a national nonprofit dedicated to expanding broadband access and digital empowerment, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. The organization was founded in 2001 in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and has since worked across all 50 states and three U.S. territories to improve connectivity, increase adoption, and build essential digital skills. As part of the celebration, Connected Nation will share its impact over the past quarter-century and attempt a world record for the longest digital skills training event.

Why it matters

Connected Nation’s work over the past 25 years has been crucial in addressing the persistent digital divide in the U.S., where millions still lack access to high-speed internet or the digital skills needed to fully participate in the modern economy. The organization’s efforts to map broadband availability, deliver hands-on training, and forge public-private partnerships have helped countless communities expand connectivity and digital opportunities.

The details

Throughout 2026, Connected Nation will be highlighting its milestones and real-world impact, as well as sharing news about ongoing projects with state broadband offices, digital empowerment organizations, and other partners. The centerpiece of the celebration will be a world record attempt for the longest digital skills training event, a 25-hour marathon broadcast live from Louisville, Kentucky on September 24-25. This event aims to demonstrate the importance of ensuring everyone has access to the fundamental digital skills needed to thrive in today’s world.

  • Connected Nation was founded on February 19, 2001 in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
  • The organization will attempt the world record for digital skills training on September 24-25, 2026.

The players

Connected Nation

A national nonprofit with a mission to expand the access, adoption, and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies to all people.

Tom Ferree

Chairman & CEO of Connected Nation.

Heather Gate

Executive VP of Digital Empowerment at Connected Nation.

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What they’re saying

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to improve their lives, their families, and their communities, regardless of who they are, where they live, or how they begin.”

— Tom Ferree, Chairman & CEO, Connected Nation (PRNewswire)

“This world record attempt represents something bigger than just CN. It demonstrates that we must work together to create lasting and positive change.”

— Heather Gate, Executive VP, Digital Empowerment, Connected Nation (PRNewswire)

What’s next

Connected Nation is encouraging organizations and individuals to get involved in the 25-hour digital skills training world record attempt on September 24-25, 2026.

The takeaway

Connected Nation’s 25 years of work to expand broadband access and digital empowerment have been crucial in addressing the persistent digital divide in the U.S. The organization’s upcoming celebration and world record attempt demonstrate its continued commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.



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