In 2021, utility cooperatives Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative and WCFIBER joined forces to bring high-speed broadband internet services to rural and underserved communities across five Upstate counties to bridge the digital divide where little or no access exists.

Hughes Agency helped launch this $150 million partnership, called Upcountry Fiber, utilizing its strong public relations expertise, and through developing a complex, demographic and geotargeted media plan with a mix of outdoor, print, digital and broadcast mediums. We continue to support Upcountry Fiber as they build out their footprint, and by raising awareness for its newly formed philanthropic arm, Upcountry Fiber Foundation, which supports local non-profit organizations.