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

This recognition highlights communities that are building for the future while staying rooted in their 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 distance, 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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Apply Today

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