# Benton Institute for Broadband & Society

> Research institution on digital equity

**Wikidata**: [Q111265627](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q111265627)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/benton-institute-for-broadband-society

## Summary
The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society is a United States-based nonprofit research institute dedicated to addressing digital equity. Formerly known as the Benton Foundation, the organization conducts research to promote broadband access and understanding of its societal impact.

## Key Facts
- **Formal Name:** Benton Institute for Broadband & Society
- **Also Known As:** Benton Foundation (earlier instantiation)
- **Organization Type:** Research Institute; Nonprofit Organization
- **Primary Focus:** Digital Equity
- **Location:** United States
- **Website:** https://www.benton.org/
- **IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN):** 13-6075750
- **Membership:** Coalition for Independent Technology Research
- **Affiliation:** National Digital Inclusion Alliance
- **Revenue (2023):** $1,518,158 USD
- **Total Assets (2023):** $3,577,953 USD

## FAQs
**Q: What is the primary mission of the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society?**
A: The institute functions as a research organization focused on digital equity, aiming to ensure that broadband access and technology benefits are available to all members of society.

**Q: What was the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society previously called?**
A: The institute was previously known as the Benton Foundation; it replaced this earlier instantiation to continue its work under its current name.

**Q: Is the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society affiliated with other organizations?**
A: Yes, it is a member of the Coalition for Independent Technology Research and is affiliated with the National Digital Inclusion Alliance.

**Q: How is the institute classified for tax and organizational purposes?**
A: It is classified as a nonprofit organization with the IRS Employer Identification Number 13-6075750 and is recognized structurally as a research institute.

## Why It Matters
The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society serves as a critical engine for discovery and advocacy within the digital equity landscape. By operating specifically as a research institute rather than a commercial entity or general charity, it dedicates its resources solely to generating knowledge about broadband access and its societal implications.

In an era where connectivity drives economic competitiveness, the institute addresses the "digital divide"—the gap between those who have access to modern information and communication technology and those who do not. Unlike think tanks that may focus broadly on policy, or universities that balance research with teaching, the institute concentrates on fundamental inquiry into how broadband infrastructure impacts society. This focus allows for deep, sustained investigation into the challenges of connectivity, influencing public policy and helping to ensure that the benefits of the digital age are shared equitably across the United States.

## Notable For
- **Exclusive Research Focus:** Differentiated from general charities by its specific classification as a research institute dedicated to systematic investigation.
- **Digital Equity Advocacy:** Specifically targets the intersection of broadband technology and social justice.
- **Organizational Evolution:** Notable for transitioning from the Benton Foundation to its current instantiation to better align with its broadband and society mission.
- **Network of Influence:** Holds memberships in key coalitions like the Coalition for Independent Technology Research, distinguishing it as a collaborative player in the technology policy sphere.

## Body

### Organizational Classification and Identity
The Benton Institute for Broadband & Society is formally classified as a **research institute** and a **nonprofit organization**. As a research institute, its primary purpose is to conduct research, distinguishing it from universities or corporate entities. It exists specifically to generate new knowledge through systematic investigation into digital equity. The organization is mapped to `schema.org/ResearchOrganization` for structured data purposes and is located in the **United States**.

The institute replaced the **Benton Foundation**, which is listed as an alias and earlier instantiation of the entity. This evolution reflects a continued commitment to its core mission under a specific focus on broadband and society.

### Financial Profile
The institute maintains a distinct financial record tracked under IRS EIN **13-6075750**. Its revenue and assets have fluctuated over the past decade, reflecting its operational scale as a nonprofit research entity.

**Revenue History (USD):**
*   **2023:** $1,518,158
*   **2022:** $1,180,645
*   **2021:** $1,100,429
*   **2020:** $262,149
*   **2019:** $87,996
*   **2015:** $609,803
*   **2014:** $832,928
*   **2013:** $1,200,149
*   **2012:** $388,921
*   **2011:** $1,437,854

**Total Assets History (USD):**
*   **2023:** $3,577,953
*   **2022:** $3,379,332
*   **2021:** $3,992,381
*   **2020:** $4,023,760
*   **2019:** $4,698,787
*   **2015:** $6,882,901
*   **2014:** $7,715,693
*   **2013:** $8,498,428
*   **2012:** $7,245,226
*   **2011:** $7,202,026

### Affiliations and Memberships
The Benton Institute actively participates in broader coalitions to further its research and advocacy goals.
*   **Coalition for Independent Technology Research:** The institute is a verified member of this coalition, contributing to a collective effort in technology research.
*   **National Digital Inclusion Alliance:** The institute holds an affiliation with this alliance, strengthening its connection to on-the-ground digital inclusion efforts.

### Online Presence
The organization maintains a digital presence at its official website, **https://www.benton.org/**, where it disseminates its research and findings on digital equity.

## References

1. [Source](https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/136075750)
2. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20250307183435/https://independenttechresearch.org/members/#members-member-list)
3. [Source](https://www.digitalinclusion.org/affiliates/)
4. [Nonprofit Explorer](https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/136075750)
5. Nonprofit Explorer