Vertical: Tribal
Application: Improved coverage and capacity
Ecosystem: BearCom
Private Network: LTE, CBRS
BearCom’s recent partnerships with leading technology providers helped them build an innovative connectivity solution for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians (PCI) in Alabama – a shining example of empowering tribal communities through digital sovereignty.
Understanding the limitations of existing internet service providers and associated costs, BearCom worked closely with PCI to develop a new connectivity model granting them full control, ownership, and billing autonomy over their network. The $5.5 million project deployed a private LTE network running on the CBRS 3.5 GHz band combined with comprehensive infrastructure and device provisioning.
“In the midst of the Covid pandemic, we realized our rural community was light years behind in connectivity,” said Stephanie A. Bryan, PCI Chair and CEO. “Our primary objective with investing in high-speed internet solutions was to enhance our community’s capacity to learn, connect, and foster a technological future that would facilitate workforce development.”
PCI selected BearCom for their expertise serving Native American tribes and extensive design, deployment, and consulting capabilities. “It’s about helping communities overcome the digital divide, reach digital sovereignty, and enable their members with access to fundamental resources,” said Mike Owen, BearCom’s Chief Technology Officer.
The 14-month project’s 38 square mile coverage area with over 11,000 feet of network cable benefits approximately 500 tribal citizens and the local rural Alabama community. A telecommunications hub ensures a seamless user experience on the private LTE system.
