Ting Internet, a division of Tucows (NASDAQ: TCX) (TSX: TC), announced that it has been selected to provide fiber internet service to Memphis residents, businesses, and institutions in partnership with Blue Suede Networks.
Known for its world-class customer support and dedication to the communities in which it operates, Ting launched its fiber-to-the-home business in 2014 and is currently serving sixteen markets. Ting expects service to be available to the first wave of Memphians by Q3 2024.
“We would like Memphis to be the most fiber-connected city in America, and a national model of digital equity. Based on research, over 40% of residents are eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program and more than 45% do not have high-speed internet in their homes,” said Elliot Noss, CEO of Tucows and Ting Internet. “Serving communities like Memphis is exactly why Ting got back to being an ISP—to bring fiber internet service to underserved cities.”
When the network launches next year, Memphians will be able to subscribe to Ting’s 2-gigabit symmetrical internet plan for $89 per month, and qualifying low-income residents will be offered the same service at no cost once ACP is applied. Ting is proud to provide the fastest ACP offering in the country, rooted in Ting’s belief that all Americans should have access to the best internet possible. Working with Blue Suede Networks and the City of Memphis, Ting plans to establish a digital equity program that encourages broadband adoption, connects residents to affordable devices, and offers digital skills training.
Ting and Blue Suede Networks created a partnership with financially sustainable goals for both parties. The expansion into Memphis enables Ting to bring its expertise to a largely under-served fiber market.
To lead its marketing and adoption strategy in Memphis, Ting will be entering into a partnership with The Vibranium Network, a team of marketers and entrepreneurs led by Keith Clinkscales, who specializes in using cultural influence to create impact and build wealth in African American communities. A two-time Peabody award winner with ESPN and the former CEO of REVOLT Media & TV, Keith is an outstanding media professional with a track record of spurring cultural change through storytelling that has a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and communities.
Blue Suede Networks will build Memphis’s fiber network through a phased approach. The first residents are expected to receive Ting’s fiber internet services in Memphis in summer 2024, with ongoing network construction projected through 2030. Once complete, the network has the opportunity to serve up to 315,000 addresses with Ting operating at launch as the exclusive residential and small business internet service provider.
“We are excited to partner with Ting and the City of Memphis to provide better, faster fiber-based connectivity, which will foster greater economic, educational, and entrepreneurial opportunities for all Memphians now and for generations to come,” said Charles Elliott, CEO of Blue Suede Networks.
Memphis residents can visit tinginternet.com/memphis to sign up for construction updates and be notified when Ting service is available at their address.
