When you’re building something as important as a broadband cooperative, having a plan matters, but it’s just as important as staying flexible—adapting to the needs of the community, the realities of construction, and the unexpected challenges that come with a major project.
The RuBICON (Rural Broadband Internet Co-Op Network) project timeline outlines key milestones that will help guide the formation of a community-owned broadband network for unserved and underserved areas across the Central Valley.
Here’s a look at the major phases of the project:
- Exploratory Meetings (July–September 2024)
The first step is engagement. Local leaders, organizations, and community members meet to explore the possibility of forming a broadband cooperative. These meetings gauge interest, discuss needs, and identify potential barriers. - Steering Committee Formation (October 2024)
A steering committee made up of local representatives is established to guide early decisions, explore community needs, and help set the stage for broader engagement. - Market Analysis (March–May 2025)
In this phase, market research helps identify specific service gaps, competition, pricing structures, and other factors that will shape the broadband strategy. - Feasibility Study (June–August 2025)
A formal feasibility study assesses whether forming a broadband co-op is realistic and sustainable. It examines technical needs, market demand, funding options, and possible business models. - Business Plan Development (October 2025)
The information from the feasibility study and market analysis will be used to complete a detailed business plan, laying out a roadmap for the co-op’s growth and sustainability. - Co-Op Formation (December 2025)
If the feasibility study supports it, the next step is formal co-op formation. This involves adopting articles of incorporation and officially establishing the organization. - First Co-Op Meeting (January 2026)
The first official meeting of the broadband co-op takes place. Members approve bylaws and, once there is a member base, elect the first Board of Directors. - Membership Drive (January 2026)
With the foundation in place, the co-op launches a membership drive to encourage participation, build support, and ensure that the network reflects the needs of those it will serve. - Acquiring Capital and Beginning Operations (January 2026)
Throughout the project, the co-op will raise funds through equity sales (member stock purchases) and borrowing (debt financing) to fund construction and operations. - Digital Literacy Support (Ongoing)
Building a broadband network isn’t just about laying fiber—it’s also about helping people use it. RuBICON will support the development and deployment of digital literacy programs to ensure residents, businesses, and farms can fully benefit from improved internet access.
See the timeline infographic here.
While this roadmap offers clear direction, it’s important to recognize that projects like RuBICON don’t always follow a straight line. The timeline may shift based on market conditions, construction challenges, funding opportunities, or feedback from the community. The goal is to build a broadband network that truly serves the people, and that means staying flexible, responsive, and committed every step of the way.