Verizon CEO to chair new Edison Alliance for digital inclusion

News General Global 1 FEB 2021
Verizon CEO to chair new Edison Alliance for digital inclusion

Verizon CEO Hans Vestberg is the first chair of a new industry group aimed at improving digital inclusion. The Edison Alliance was formed at the latest World Economic Forum to foster affordable and accessible digital opportunities for everyone by 2025. Its members will work on building industry ties with government to support rapid digital development. 

Other members of the board include Mastercard Executive Chair Ajay Banga, the Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Group Shobana Kamineni, Vista Equity Partner CEO Robert Smith, and Rwanda's technology minister Paula Ingabire. Other backers include Google's CFO Ruth Porat, American Tower CEO Thomas Barlett, Boston Consulting Group CEO Rich Lesser, Qualcomm President and CEO-Elect Cristiano R. Amon, and the World Economic Forum's Klaus Schwab.

According to a report in Forbes, the Edison Alliance "was structured to have teeth", with regular board meetings and milestones throughout the year. Top deputies from each company will meet regularly to push goals, tackle problems, and maintain momentum. Its sources said that each company will provide cash and resources to expand broadband for health, financial inclusion, and education.

Related Articles