CED's broadband mapping efforts in support of the Public Utilities Commission statewide broadband mapping and data development efforts continue to reveal interesting information for public use. This week, please note the availability of "mobile broadband" maps. Not every population in California has the same first choice when it comes to accessing the Internet, and there is a growing understanding that "mobile broadband" accessed on a smartphone may be just as critical as traditional broadband for some groups.

A statewide mobile broadband availability map is available at the California Public Utilities Commission's website. A traditional broadband availability map for the state is also available, and more detailed maps showing top speeds for various broadband technologies can be found at the CPUC's broadband mapping directory.   

As technology and consumer choices continue to change, there is no dispute that the smartphone is becoming increasingly integral to the daily communication of many Californians. A recent report by the National Hispanic Media Coalition explains that smartphone penetration and data usage is higher for Latino populations than any other ethnic group, even as home broadband adoption for Latinos remains lower than any other group. While efforts to increase home broadband adoption are no less important than ever, this report points to mobile broadband as another tool that can help us close California's digital divide.  

The Business and Industry Assistance Program (BIAP) at the CED has taken on a role of intensive one-on-one market research counseling for small businesses in Northern California. The BIAP actively partners with local economic developers, lenders, and small business counselors to stress the importance of market research for loan applications, business plans, marketing strategies and most importantly to allow small businesses to make informed decisions when allocating scarce resources. We all know that capital is difficult to come by in this economy so it is important that businesses have all the necessary information to make sound decisions about opening, expanding or investing.

As of today, BIAP is working under contracts with USDA Rural Development, SBA, and the City of Chico to provide intensive market research assistance to businesses in their respective communities. We are currently seeking feedback from the small business community and local community leaders on what types of data you would like to see made available. We here at the BIAP are curious as to what is important to you, whether it be quick turnaround time, intensive one-on-one consultations about data needs, prefer e-mail, or a quick phone call. Is it more important to you to have a standard set of reports or is a longer waiting period worth customized information? This is your chance to tell us what types of business data is relevant to you and how you would like it presented. Send your feedback to Michael Suplita at msuplita@csuchico.edu.

Currently we help companies using the following strategies: market/trade area mapping, customer targeting via economic and demographic reports, competitor data, business lists, customer counts and mailing list, industry trend research, search engine optimization, social media training, and web site analytics. In addition, to helping businesses with their market penetration the CED's services also allow businesses to make revenue predictions when evaluating new product lines, new markets, and new businesses. Sales estimates are an integral part of any business plan, especially when seeking funding. If you or any one you know is in need of these services please contact Michael Suplita at (530) 898-3855 or msuplita@csuchico.edu.