Internet Like Sidewalk

Ambient Connectivity Guild

A collective of community networks, cooperatives, and advocates promoting Internet infrastructure as a public good—ubiquitous, open, and community-controlled.

15+
Member Networks
25,000+
People Connected
3,000+
Network Nodes

Connectivity Like Sidewalks

Inspired by Bob Frankston's vision, we believe Internet access should be as ubiquitous and accessible as sidewalks—shared infrastructure that connects communities without gatekeepers or meters.

The Guild unites grassroots mesh networks, community fiber cooperatives, and municipal broadband initiatives that treat connectivity as a public good rather than a commodity.

Internet connectivity visualized like sidewalk infrastructure

Our Core Principles

Building community-owned infrastructure that serves people, not profits

Open Access

Networks built by and for communities, with transparent governance and no artificial scarcity. Everyone has the right to connect.

Community Governance

Democratic control over infrastructure decisions. Members shape network policies, priorities, and expansion.

Network Neutrality

All data treated equally without throttling, blocking, or paid prioritization. The network serves users, not advertisers.

Proven Community Solutions

From fixed wireless to cooperatively-owned fiber, our members are building the future of connectivity

Community mesh network visualization

Mesh Networks

Grassroots wireless networks like NYC Mesh (2,000+ nodes) and Philly Community Wireless connecting underserved neighborhoods through rooftop-to-rooftop links.

Fiber optic cooperative infrastructure

Fiber Cooperatives

Community-owned fiber networks providing gigabit speeds at affordable rates, governed democratically by member-owners rather than shareholders.

Build the Network Together

Whether you're launching a new community network or joining an established cooperative, the Guild provides resources, mentorship, and advocacy support.