Digital First Project (DFP) is a grassroots advocacy organization dedicated to empowering Americans with access to next-generation technologies like low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and innovative artificial intelligence (AI). DFP aims to close the digital divide and ensure American innovation by preserving America’s internet infrastructure from outside threats and securing the nation’s leadership in the digital economy.

By closing the digital divide and protecting everyday Americans’ use of technology, DFP believes it is possible to further capitalize on economic opportunities to research, create and build. DFP also emphasizes protecting innovation and cutting restrictive red tape.

“Digital First Project is committed to prioritizing and protecting next-generation technologies for all Americans,” says DFP Executive Director Nathan Leamer. Leamer served as a policy advisor to former Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai and has experience working on Capitol Hill and writing extensively on emerging technology, intellectual property and privacy. He adds, “When we support innovative tech, from LEO satellites that ensure Americans have access to reliable broadband to innovative and streamlined infrastructure that enhances the nation’s commercial space industry, we are empowering the U.S. to lead the digital economy and individuals to use digital tools for success.”

From advocating for broadband connectivity that provides Americans with access to the internet and the ability to make emergency phone calls to appealing to legislative work that shapes tech-based policies, DFP is a leader in promoting innovative technology. With focuses on AI, commercial space technologies, net neutrality and more, Digital First Project is a natural partner for the Connect Everyone Coalition (CEC). LEO satellites are one example of next-generation tech solutions that enhance connectivity, bolster the nation’s internet infrastructure and aligns with the coalition’s mission to connect everyone, everywhere.

“Advocacy organizations and communities like Digital First Project are changemakers that play an important role in the effort to close the digital divide,” says CEC Executive Director Richard Cullen. “Empowering individuals to access and adopt innovative technologies helps ensure the U.S. leads the way in terms of the 21^st-century digital economy.”

DID YOU KNOW?

It is reported that nearly 26 million Americans still lack access to high-speed internet. Access to internet and up-to-date technology is crucial for American innovation, but internet access is specifically pivotal when it comes to empowering Americans to fully participate in the modern economy and the tech-forward environment of the 21^st century. It affects daily aspects of life, including education, healthcare, career growth, entertainment and communication.  

This is where next-generation technologies like LEO satellites can play a role in ensuring everyone, everywhere has access to the tools they need to succeed in the increasingly innovative and tech-forward economy. LEO satellites provide broadband connectivity that is reliable and fast, empowering those who were previously unserved or underserved by internet services to participate in American innovation and the digital economy.