AZ-1

The Origin Story

AZ-1 was launched in 2022 through the Maricopa County Broadband Initiative (MCBI), a $34.6 million federally funded partnership between Arizona State University (ASU), Maricopa County, Sun Corridor Network, and the Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA).

With support from the American Rescue Plan, MCBI focused on expanding broadband infrastructure, distributing internet-connected devices, and offering training programs in communities where access was limited. AZ-1 was created to serve as the central hub for these efforts — a public-facing platform that shares tools, stories and progress across the state.

Landscape of Arizona with digital connections overlaid on top
AZ-1

Our Mission

Our mission is to ensure that every Arizona resident has access to reliable internet, the right devices and the digital skills needed to participate fully in today’s connected world. 

Our work involves the creation of broadband maps, making resources available for community members and support organizations, or even sharing the stories from the community to help share the impact of the work being done around Arizona, "as one".

Photo of a woman using a VR headset at the Next Lab
About AZ-1

Expanding Digital Opportunity Across Arizona

Access to high-speed internet and digital skills is essential for education, employment, healthcare, and everyday life. AZ-1 (pronounced “as one”) is Arizona’s trusted resource portal for tools, data, and collaboration that help individuals and communities close the digital access gap.

AZ-1 brings together a network of partners working toward the same goal: building more connected communities across Arizona.

Breaking ground in Yavapai County

How AZ-1 Powers Digital Progress in Arizona

AZ-1 supports Arizona communities in three core ways:

ASU ET Logo

Mapping the Digital Landscape

Built by Enterprise Technology at Arizona State University AZ-1’s interactive broadband map provides detailed, real-time information about internet availability, network speeds, and community infrastructure. Built from FCC, ACS, Ookla, and local data sources, the map supports grant writing, policy planning, and decision-making at every level.

SCN Logo

Expanding Infrastructure and Connectivity

Sun Corridor Network is extending high-speed internet to homes, schools, libraries, healthcare centers, and other key institutions. This includes fiber expansion, middle-mile buildouts and last-mile connections, especially in rural and historically under-connected area

IDIA Logo

Advancing Digital Skills and Opportunity

The Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration – IDIA helps Arizona residents develop essential digital skills through device distribution, local training programs, and access to community-based Hives. These services support workforce development, education, telehealth and everyday technology use.

By the Numbers (2022–2025)

 

80+ miles 


of fiber infrastructure deployed

10,000+ 


internet-enabled devices distributed

20,000+ 


visitors to the AZ-1 portal

15,000+ 


interactions with the Arizona broadband map

~10,000 


hours of digital training delivered


active Hive locations supporting community access

 

Get Involved

AZ-1 is here to support you — whether you are a community member seeking resources, a public official planning broadband expansion, or an organization sharing tools and stories.