Last Mile Initiative Colombia (LMI-CO) is a USAID sponsored project under the Oportunet brand, whose aim is to expand telecommunications access into rural areas of Colombia. Inspired from the model of other USAID sponsored initiatives, the Oportunet LMI-CO project unites the efforts of local entrepreneurs, the Colombian government, telecommunications operators, and ISPs in order to bring connectivity to under-served areas.
As part of integrating a development partnership in the LMI-CO program, Alexius was able to bring Avantel, a major telecommunication provider in Colombia, to invest, operate, and take ownership of program. Leveraging key regulatory changes in the opening up of WiMax 3.5GHz frequency allowed Avantel to compete and receive the license for 8 rural departments. This as a result from ongoing lobbying efforts on the part of LMI, other USAID/Colombia projects, and the private sector.
Alexius was also able to build several key partnerships with local and national government entities including the national training institute SENA, CONFECAMARAS, Ministry of Education, local municipalities and entreprenuers. Another key partnership was with Intel, which included key contributions in education, through teacher training and education, and linking Avantel with Intel Capital, to seek additional investment opportunties for the program.
For additional information on the project, please see the project Fact Sheet.
