Stronger Communities: Supporting Small Businesses Through Connectivity

Small businesses are a cornerstone of American communities and play a vital role in maintaining a strong and resilient economy. Over the past 25 years, small businesses have contributed to 66% of America’s job growth. Small businesses compose 99.9% of all businesses in the U.S., generate 44% of the U.S. GDP, and employ nearly half of the American workforce, making them the foundation of innovation, job creation, and prosperity (U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 2023). 

These businesses reflect the diversity and entrepreneurial spirit of the nation. In fact, 20% of small businesses are minority-owned. Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) entrepreneurs are one of the fastest-growing demographics of entrepreneurs, making up over 11% of all small businesses in the U.S. and employing over 5.2 million workers. Each one contributes uniquely to the local and national economy, often representing generations of dedication, creativity, and service.

As digital transformation continues to shape today’s economy, reliable and high-speed internet access has become a fundamental requirement for small businesses. From managing operations to reaching customers online, small businesses of all kinds need dependable connectivity to stay competitive and resilient in the face of change.

Historically, copper landlines served as the backbone of business communication. While they still provide basic services like voice calling, caller ID, and call-waiting, modern business needs demand more. Copper networks offer slower speeds, are limited in bandwidth, and can be more vulnerable to weather-related disruptions—factors that can impact business continuity.

In contrast, broadband technologies such as fiber-optic cables, and new IP-based services like Voice-over-IP (VoIP), provide faster, more reliable, and cost-effective business solutions. According to the CDC, as of 2022, over 72% of adults and more than 81% of children lived in wireless-only households—a sign of the broader shift away from traditional landline services. These newer options can provide the speed, capacity, and reliability required for modern digital tools. However, the availability and affordability of these technologies can vary greatly depending on geographic location and infrastructure investment.

Recognizing that copper networks are aging and require significant upkeep, the telecommunications industry is working toward phasing them out by 2029. This transition period allows time for small businesses to explore upgraded services and discuss options with their providers, including cost considerations and number portability. It also allows alternative, more capable technologies to reach the last pockets of the un- or under-connected in the country. Federal and state regulators can also play an important role in this transition by allowing companies to redirect the excessive costs of maintaining outdated copper infrastructure—often for only a handful of remaining subscribers—into more capable networks and services.

Whether you are operating a local mom-and-pop shop in rural South Dakota or a mid-sized business in a major city, making the shift to modern communication networks can enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and expand your digital reach. Enhanced connectivity can improve customer experiences, support growth, and ensure that small businesses remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

While copper networks have long served our communities, embracing newer technologies ensures that small businesses continue to thrive, innovate, and contribute to the economy for generations to come. Fiber and wireless technologies provide greater efficiency and security in our rapidly advancing global landscape. Continued investment—both public and private—is essential to ensure these modern solutions are available in all communities, especially those that are un- or under-connected. Expanding access to reliable, affordable, and scalable connectivity will help every small business, regardless of location, participate fully in the digital economy and move confidently into the future.

Note: Cost-conscious businesses that do not require massive technology upgrades have options from providers. AT&T, for example, has AT&T Phone-Advanced (AP-A) and AT&T Phone for Business – Advanced (APB-A) to help ensure continuity by enabling customers to retain their existing phone numbers and benefit from additional digital services.