Westngn's story
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WestNGN is a program of the Land of Sky Regional Council, originally launched in 2016. Initially aimed at bringing gigabit fiber to the Asheville area, the project has since expanded and is now working to increase digital access across the region. Much of this work has focused on securing more than $56 million in grants to fund infrastructure development, which has helped extend internet service to unserved areas in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and Transylvania counties.
Additionally, WestNGN has helped leverage over $5.8 million in digital access programs, supporting public Wi-Fi projects, digital education classes, as well as other digital initiatives throughout the served area, while also fostering partnerships. In 2024, the launch of our device refurbishment program led to the distribution of more than 1,000 devices to residents, bridging the digital divide and expanding technology access, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
Since the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, WestNGN has been actively working to address the growing digital divide in the region. The organization recognizes that access to digital tools and literacy are crucial for economic development and has expanded its community partnerships to support these efforts. By focusing on increasing digital literacy and improving access to technology, WestNGN is empowering individuals and businesses alike. These initiatives not only help bridge the gap for underserved communities but also contribute to the broader goal of expanding economic opportunities and digital access throughout the region, fostering sustainable growth, and creating a more connected, resilient future.
WestNGN believes that access to broadband and digital devices is essential for participation in the 21st-century digital economy and is committed to expanding access across the region to close the digital divide. The organization looks to help folks be able to "Connect to their future"
Our Team.
Energy & Economic Development Manager
Sara Nichols
Sara Nichols is a passionate advocate for digital inclusion and a trailblazer who has been at the forefront of implementing transformational broadband projects throughout Western North Carolina. She is a public servant with more than 18 years of experience leading regional initiatives related to broadband, regional planning, and economic and community development.
In her current role as a Energy and Economic Development Program Manager at the Land of Sky Regional Council based in Asheville, North Carolina, Sara serves as the region’s broadband program manager and is widely regarded as a respected technical expert for regional broadband project implementation. Prior to her current role, Sara served as Economic Development Director for the Madison County Department of Development Services in North Carolina, where she led initiatives focused on bringing broadband access to thousands of unserved citizens, facilitated business expansion, and oversaw the creation of the county’s first public art program. She also is a classically trained upright bass player who graces regional stages on the weekend. Her professional background also includes nearly a decade of work experience in the environmental stewardship realm, overseeing projects related to stormwater management, transitions into alternative fuel, and the provision of technical assistance to community stakeholders to help them access and administer related grant funding. In 2022 she was the second highest vote getter in Buncombe County, elected to the Buncombe Soil and Water Conservation District.
Over the course of her professional career, Sara has helped secure more than $56 million in broadband funding for the Western North Carolina region from a wide range of sources including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Appalachian Regional Commission, the state of North Carolina’s Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) grant program, Dogwood Health Trust, and many other sources. These investments are helping connect over 15,000 unserved residents and businesses in Western North Carolina.
Sara holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Mars Hill University. She has graced national stages as a speaker sharing insights on digital inclusion, the importance of broadband accessibility, and the intersection of technology and quality of life. In 2023 she testified before U.S. Congress on the importance of broadband and digital inclusion funding.
