Broadband and rural development: Impacts of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Broadband Initiatives Program on saving and creating jobs

Abstract

This study analyzed the impact of the USDA's Broadband Initiatives Program on employment and business survival. While average employment declined in both program and non-program areas, the decline was less severe in program areas, suggesting a positive impact. This impact was primarily observed in metro counties, the service sector, and employer establishments. Businesses in program areas were also less likely to fail than those outside the program areas, with variation across location, business type, and industry.