About Us

The Twin Cities Broadband Cooperative is an alliance formed to generate community solutions to the digital divide.

Launched in 2021, our goal is to provide Internet service and education to underprivileged communities.

Our purpose is to provide proper tools, better internet service, and good quality customer service for all.

Internet providers in the twin cities have been engaging in digital redlining for decades. We deserve more, and the time has come for us to have community owned internet.

By doing this work, we will empower communities of color to bridge the digital divide, and build safer communities.

Mission Statement

The Twin Cities Broadband Cooperative's mission is to use culturally based practices to generate community solutions to the digital divide.

We are building a cooperative community of Black-owned and operated Internet and Internet systems education and tools. We research and document the intersection of poverty and technology gatekeeping on communities of color. We will provide internet services that are reliable, affordable, and empower cunderserved communities.

Our Members

Ini Augustine - Chair

Ini Augustine is a network engineer, social innovator, and serial entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Technologist Computers, a social enterprise that provides affordable laptops, tech, and tech support to underserved communities and small organizations. Project Nandi, a program of Technologist Computers, provides technical support, laptops, food and broadband assistance to families of color impacted by covid19 & the George Floyd uprisings. Ini is also the founder of the Black Broadband summit, which aims to discuss shared experiences around lack of access, teach how the internet works, and discuss community led solutions to closing the digital divide in the Twin Cities.

Tanika Fears - Vice Chair

Tanika Fears is an author, a devoted mother of four, and an active member of various community organizations. As an author, Tanika has found immense joy in crafting captivating stories that transport readers to new worlds and offer unique perspectives. When Tanika is not immersed in literature, her most important role is being a mother and grandmother. Being a mother has taught her the true meaning of unconditional love, patience, and the importance of nurturing young minds. Additionally, Tanika finds great fulfillment in giving back to the community through my involvement in various organizations. Whether it’s volunteering at local charities or participating in community projects, Tanika believes in making a positive impact and fostering a sense of togetherness. Tanika is passionate about creating, nurturing, and empowering both in her writing and in her personal life.

Inie Clement - Treasurer

Inie Clement specializes in the development of affordable housing in poverty-stricken areas. Her areas of expertise include city, state, and housing grants. As a pharmacist, she has worked to create health equity for indigenous reservations of the Navajo and Tohono Nations in Arizona.