Artificial intelligence is embedded in résumé builders, benefits navigation systems, tutoring platforms, telehealth triage tools, and case management software. Increasingly, AI agents act as intermediaries between individuals and essential services. These systems assume reliable broadband access—but millions of Americans remain under-connected.
The Post-ACP Funding Gap
The end of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in 2024 marked a structural shift in the digital equity landscape. FCC data shows more than 23 million households relied on ACP subsidies before funding expired.
As subsidies disappeared, families increasingly turned to libraries and nonprofits as primary internet access points—shifting financial and operational burdens onto community institutions.
While federal initiatives such as the Digital Equity Act continue to roll out, competitive grants take time to distribute, leaving organizations navigating uncertain timelines.
Meanwhile, EducationSuperHighway reports that hundreds of thousands of students remain at risk of losing reliable home internet access as pandemic-era funding sunsets.
From Digital Divide to AI Divide
The digital divide is evolving into an AI divide—a gap not only in internet access, but in the ability to participate in AI-enabled systems that mediate employment, healthcare, education, and social services.
Without reliable connectivity, individuals cannot access AI-powered job portals, telehealth systems, digital identity verification tools, or online education platforms.
Nonprofit and Library Use Cases in an AI-Driven Service Model
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Use Case
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Application
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Impact
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Client Service Delivery
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Telehealth, benefits applications, housing searches
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Ensures uninterrupted access to essential services
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Workforce Development
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AI-enabled employment portals, virtual interviews
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Reduces structural employment barriers
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Educational Programs
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GED prep, digital literacy, AI literacy training
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Expands learning opportunities beyond facilities
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Health Services
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Telehealth, mental health access, medication tools
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Closes healthcare access gaps
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Social Service Coordination
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Case management, legal aid, benefits enrollment
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Improves service delivery outcomes
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Operational Pressures Facing Community Leaders
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Nonprofit and library leaders report recurring structural pressures:
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Funding volatility and short-term grants
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Growing demand for hotspot lending programs
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Increased data security and privacy requirements
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Administrative burden of device management
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Need for predictable, scalable budgeting models
Emerging Models: Managed Connectivity for Public-Interest Organizations
One example is Kajeet Connected Communities, launched in 2026 to provide managed 4G and 5G internet access tailored for nonprofit and public-sector organizations.
The program includes centralized device oversight through the Sentinel® platform, real-time monitoring, content filtering controls, flexible deployment options, and nonprofit pricing tiers.
“AI is reshaping how communities access education, healthcare, and workforce opportunities. But AI cannot function without connectivity. If we want inclusive AI systems, we must first ensure inclusive infrastructure. Sustainable, managed connectivity is not optional—it is foundational.”
— Landon Garner, President of Kajeet
Connectivity as AI Infrastructure
As AI agents continue to shape education systems, workforce pathways, healthcare delivery, and public services, reliable internet access is no longer supplemental—it is core infrastructure.
AI inclusion will not be determined solely by innovation. It will be determined by access. Learn more about Kajeet Connected Communities >>
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