The Keystone Initiative for Network Based Education and Research (KINBER) is an
organization devoted to fostering collaboration through technology for education,
research, healthcare, workforce development, government and economic development.
KINBER is pleased to make public its strategic plan
for 2013 - 2017.
In 2010 KINBER received an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant for $99.6
million to deliver broadband networks to underserved areas of Pennsylvania by building
the Pennsylvania Research and Education Network (PennREN), a 1,600-mile high speed
fiber optic network across the state. Construction was completed in February 2013.
VISION
KINBER envisions the day when every individual, community and organization has fair,
ubiquitous and comprehensive access to educational, research, employment, healthcare,
cultural, and social networking opportunities that improve the quality of life and
contribute to the vibrancy, sustainability and economic stability of the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania.
MISSION
KINBER is a nonprofit membership organization that provides broadband connectivity,
fosters collaboration, and promotes the innovative use of digital technologies among
learning, health, media and other anchor institutions that improve the quality of
life for communities in Pennsylvania through research, education and public service.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
KINBER’s Board of Directors, staff and members are dedicated to upholding the following
guiding principles:
- • Ensuring fair and equitable access to broadband and network services
- • Governing by the will of its member organizations
- • Being trustworthy, transparent and accountable to its members, partners, and funders
- • Cultivating an internal culture of collaboration and innovation
- • Being a thought leader and participant in regional, national and global conversations
about the value and importance of network-based education and research networks
- • Educating citizens, community anchor institutions, and corporations engaged in
research and development about the value of KINBER
- • Maintaining organizational and financial sustainability