Tractor Supply and Starlink team up to expand rural broadband via 4-H

Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ: TSCO), Starlink and 4-H have announced an alliance aimed at expanding broadband access in rural communities across the United States.

As part of the initiative, Starlink will provide 100 satellite kits and service to designated 4-H clubs. For eligible Starlink kits purchased through Tractor Supply stores or TractorSupply.com, Starlink will donate the value of the customer's first month of subscription service to the National 4-H Council. Tractor Supply will also make an initial $500,000 donation to the National 4-H Council to launch the program.

The announcement was made at the Great American State Fair, where U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins joined Tractor Supply President and CEO Hal Lawton, National 4-H Council President and CEO Jill Bramble, and SpaceX Vice President of Satellite Policy David Goldman.

According to the Federal Communications Commission, 22.3% of Americans in rural areas lack standard broadband internet coverage, compared with 1.5% in urban areas.

"Connecting the unconnected has always been at the core of Starlink's mission," said Goldman. "By expanding access, we can support 4-H's efforts to deliver STEM education and create new opportunities for youth."

Lawton noted that Tractor Supply has offered free Wi-Fi in its store parking lots since 2020 as part of its efforts to address rural connectivity. Tractor Supply has partnered with the National 4-H Council since 2010 and has raised more than $27 million through its biannual Paper Clover fundraiser.

"As 4-H works to reach 10 million young people by 2030, expanding digital access is critical, particularly in rural communities where connectivity remains a barrier," said Bramble.

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