mesh++ Secures $4.9M Funding to Expand Connectivity
Bridging the Digital Divide: Mesh++'s Innovative Approach to Rural Internet Access
For individuals residing near the San Francisco Bay, numerous high-speed internet service providers compete for their business, offering gigabit connectivity. However, billions globally, particularly in rural areas, face limited or nonexistent internet access. Mesh++ is dedicated to addressing this disparity, and has recently secured funding to advance its mission.
How Mesh++ Works: A Decentralized Network
The company, with headquarters in both Chicago and Nairobi, proposes a straightforward solution. A wireless router is powered on and automatically detects other nearby Mesh++ routers. These routers establish connections, sharing available internet access throughout the network.
Each router functions as a node, extending Wi-Fi coverage. Mesh++ asserts that a single node can provide connectivity across 10 acres, supporting up to 100 users. Should a local internet connection fail due to outages or power disruptions, the network’s remaining nodes maintain service. Furthermore, the network can facilitate internal communication, including messaging and news alerts.
Bandwidth Aggregation and Network Resilience
Internet connectivity can originate from various sources – ethernet, cellular modems, or multiple access points. The network aggregates bandwidth from these sources, creating redundancy. If one connection fails, others compensate.
This approach differs from separate, independently fed networks. It fosters a highly reliable system, particularly valuable in older cities with aging fiber infrastructure. By aggregating sources, even potentially unreliable connections can be trusted, as failures have minimal impact. This allows for the creation of exceptionally resilient networks.
Proven Reliability in Challenging Conditions
Beyond standard connectivity, the network is designed to withstand disaster scenarios. During Hurricane Ida, which caused widespread outages in New Orleans, Mesh++ reports its network remained operational without interruption.
A Focus on Equity and Accessibility
While numerous initiatives target rural internet connectivity, Mesh++ distinguishes itself through its commitment to access and equality. Its solution is presented as a more equitable alternative to options like Starlink, while also envisioning potential synergy between the two – utilizing Starlink for gateway access and Mesh++ for local distribution.
Potential Partnership with Starlink
Danny Gardner, CEO of Mesh++, acknowledges the potential of Starlink, stating that a partnership would be ideal. He highlights the challenge of serving even a few hundred people per satellite and emphasizes the difficulty of last-mile connectivity. Mesh++’s technology could connect the remaining 3 billion people without internet access.
Undeterred by Competition
The company is confident in its ability to surpass even major cellular providers, remaining unfazed by competition from LTE or 5G networks.
Gardner suggests that T-Mobile’s promise of nationwide 5G coverage may not materialize if 4G expansion proved financially unsustainable, implying similar challenges for 5G deployment.
Expanding Operations: From Emerging Markets to the U.S.
In addition to established test networks in several U.S. cities, Mesh++ maintains a five-person subsidiary in Nairobi.
Initially focused on emerging markets, the company recognized the significant connectivity issues within the U.S. and shifted its focus to address these domestic challenges.
Securing Funding for Growth
Mesh++ has secured $4.9 million in seed funding, led by impact investor World Within, with participation from Lateral Capital, Anorak Ventures, First Leaf Capital, and existing investors SOSV, GAN Ventures, TechNexus, and Illinois Ventures. The company previously participated in the HAX hardware pre-seed program.
Transitioning to a Mature Organization
Gardner explains that this funding signifies a transition from a research and development-focused company to one prioritizing sales and broader organizational maturity. It will enable partnerships with customers and distributors to expand connectivity to more individuals.
Capitalizing on Macroeconomic Trends and Funding Opportunities
The company is positioned to benefit from the growing emphasis on universal internet access, with over $80 billion in funding allocated to last-mile networks in the U.S. alone. While fiber optic infrastructure is economically viable only in densely populated areas, mesh networks offer a potential solution.
Mesh++ claims its technology reduces installation costs from over $400 per household to approximately $29, primarily through reduced labor expenses and simplified installation processes.
