Building Smarter Rural Communities Together

BEK Joins Program to Strengthen Opportunity Across Service Area

February 2026

At BEK Communications Cooperative, our mission has always been clear: deliver reliable, future-ready technology that helps rural communities thrive. That’s why we’re proud to be a part of the Smart Rural Communities program through NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association.

The Smart Rural Communities program recognizes broadband providers and communities that are using high-speed internet in meaningful, practical ways to improve everyday life in rural America. It’s not just about having broadband, it’s about putting it to work.

A Smart Rural Community uses advanced broadband to strengthen key areas that matter most to rural life, including:

Education - Supporting digital learning and student opportunity

Healthcare - Expanding access through telehealth and connected care

Agriculture - Enabling precision ag and modern farm operations

Public Safety - Improving communication and response capabilities

Economic Development - Helping local businesses grow and compete

Through the program, BEK is helping rural communities build for the future while staying rooted in local values.

Why This Matters for BEK Members

Being part of the NTCA Smart Rural Communities program reinforces what BEK members already know: fiber broadband is essential infrastructure for rural North Dakota. From farms and small businesses, to schools, clinics, and homes, BEK Fiber is helping bridge distances, open doors, and create opportunities that once seemed out of reach. This program validates the cooperative approach of investing locally, planning long-term, and always putting members first.

As a member-owned cooperative, BEK doesn’t answer to shareholders… we answer to you. Participating in the Smart Rural Communities program reflects our ongoing commitment to:

Smart investment in rural infrastructure
Long-term community success
Technology that grows with our members

Rural doesn’t mean behind. With the right connectivity, rural communities can lead.

Thank you for being part of BEK Communications Cooperative and for helping build smarter, stronger communities across our service area.

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