Celebrating 70 Years of Connectivity
FOCUS Broadband celebrates 70 years of innovation and service, connecting rural North Carolina with cutting-edge communication solutions and a commitment to community growth.
FOCUS Broadband, a cornerstone of communication in eastern North Carolina, proudly celebrates 70 years of service to rural communities. Originally incorporated on February 14, 1955, as Atlantic Telephone Membership Corporation (ATMC) by a visionary group of Brunswick County residents, the cooperative was established to deliver essential telephone services to underserved areas. By 1957, FOCUS Broadband was already serving its first 531 members, laying the foundation for a legacy of connectivity.
From its humble beginnings, FOCUS Broadband has grown to provide high-speed internet and communication services to over 75,000 subscribers across multiple counties. The cooperative’s first Board President, Harry L. Mintz, once predicted that telephone service would elevate Brunswick County’s standing in North Carolina. Today, Brunswick County is among the state’s fastest-growing regions, a testament to the transformative power of connectivity.
Embracing technological advancements, FOCUS Broadband expanded its offerings beyond telephone services to include high-speed internet, wireless, and home automation and security solutions. The rebranding from ATMC to FOCUS Broadband in 2022 underscores the cooperative’s commitment to cutting-edge broadband solutions.
FOCUS Broadband’s expansion efforts have been bolstered by federal and state broadband grant programs, enabling the extension of high-speed internet to seven neighboring counties and two northern counties. This expansion helps bridge the digital divide, providing thousands of residents with much-needed connectivity. The cooperative continues its dedication to innovation with a multi-million-dollar initiative to make fiber optic technology available throughout its service area.
Keith Holden, CEO of FOCUS Broadband, reflects on the cooperative’s growth: “The progress FOCUS Broadband has achieved over the past 70 years is remarkable. Embracing cutting-edge technology and recognizing new trends have been key to better serving our subscribers.”
FOCUS Broadband’s commitment to community support is unwavering. Each year, the cooperative awards scholarships to local students and provides educational and community grants to fund impactful projects for schools and non-profit organizations.
As FOCUS Broadband celebrates its 70th anniversary, it remains focused on innovation, growth, and community service. With a legacy built on connection, the cooperative looks forward to continuing its mission of serving rural North Carolinians for generations to come.