MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 22, 2026 — The City of Memphis has received the 2026 Public-Private Partnership of the Year Award from the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) for Smart Memphis Fiber, the city’s innovative partnership to expand broadband access and strengthen Memphis’ digital infrastructure.
The award recognizes projects that leverage collaboration between government and the private sector to increase connectivity and create greater digital opportunity for residents.
Through its partnership with mStreet Fiber, Memphis secured a commitment to deliver affordable fiber broadband service to 85% of the city’s population, including neighborhoods that have historically lacked access to high-speed internet. The City receives 12 dedicated fiber-optic strands and 116 anchor sites throughout Memphis, positioning the city to deploy advanced public safety networks, resilient, fiber-backed Wi-Fi at anchor locations, and fiber-enabled smart-city infrastructure.
To encourage broadband investment, the Memphis City Council approved amendments to the city’s Smart City Fiber Access Systems ordinance, reducing permitting fees and exempting broadband providers that expand service in Memphis from right-of-way access fees.
NATOA recognized Smart Memphis Fiber as a model public-private partnership that advances both connectivity and digital equity while positioning Memphis to become one of the most fiber-connected cities in America.
“Access to reliable internet is no longer optional. It’s essential infrastructure. This partnership helped us expand broadband access, create more competition in the marketplace, and ensure more Memphis families can connect to jobs, education, health care, and opportunity. We’re honored to receive this recognition and grateful to our partners who helped make it possible,” said Memphis Mayor Paul Young.
Award recipients will be honored during NATOA’s annual conference Sept. 14-17 in Kansas City, Missouri.
“This year’s award recipients exemplify the innovation, collaboration, and dedication needed to ensure every resident can participate fully in the digital economy. NATOA is proud to recognize these outstanding leaders and projects that are helping shape a more connected future for communities across the nation,” said Chris Seidt, president of National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors.