2024 Chamber Excellence Award

Greater Franklin Community and Economic Development

This year's Franklin County Chamber Excellence Award winner goes to Greater Franklin Economic and Community Development! This prestigious honor recognizes their remarkable growth, innovation, and dedication to the local economy.

Since 2017, Greater Franklin Economic and Community Development has been leading the charge to improve internet access across Franklin County. They successfully attracted internet service providers by securing federal funding, enabling the design and construction of fiber networks to every address in Franklin County, including Livermore Falls. Remarkably, Franklin County stands alone in achieving this level of connectivity, attracting $34 million in investment and serving as a model for broadband expansion across the state.

Their Digital Literacy Initiative, aims to bridge the digital divide further by offering free tech classes and one-on-one help to residents. By competing for two years of state funding, they’re ensuring that locals can learn to use this new technology safely and effectively. In partnership with Spruce Mountain and Franklin County Adult Education, which manage the instructors, classes are being held at local libraries and at community organizations like the HCC and Seniors Plus.



The Chamber is proud to honor Greater Franklin for their incredible dedication to improving connectivity and digital literacy. Franklin County is now more ready than ever for business! Congratulations to Greater Franklin Economic and Community Development for this well-deserved recognition!