Tractor Supply, 4-H Collaborate With Starlink to Bridge Digital Divide in Rural Communities

Tractor Supply Company the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States; Starlink, the world’s most advanced satellite constellation that delivers broadband connectivity nationwide; and 4-H, America’s largest youth development organization, have announced an alliance aimed at expanding broadband access in rural communities while supporting the next generation of Beyond Ready rural leaders. The initiative combines Starlink’s reliable connectivity, Tractor Supply’s nationwide rural footprint and 4-H’s ability to reach youth in every county across the country through Cooperative Extension to help address the digital divide that continues to impact millions of Americans.

As part of the initiative:

• Starlink will provide 100 Starlink kits and service to designated 4-H clubs serving rural youth, generating opportunities for students to participate in STEM, educational and workforce development programs.
• For eligible Starlink kits purchased through Tractor Supply stores and on the Tractor Supply website, Starlink will donate the value of the customer’s first month of subscription service directly to National 4-H Council, generating sustainable funding for local 4-H programs.
• Tractor Supply will donate $500,000 to the National 4-H Council to kick off the initiative.

Earlier today, at the Great American State Fair, U.S. Agriculture Department Secretary Brooke Rollins joined Tractor Supply President and CEO Hal Lawton, Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council, and David Goldman, Vice President of Satellite Policy at SpaceX to announce the alliance and discuss the ongoing need for greater internet access in rural communities. According to the Federal Communications Commission, 22.3 percent of Americans in rural areas lack standard broadband internet coverage, as compared to only 1.5 percent of Americans in urban areas. While the digital divide has decreased since 2020, it remains a significant barrier to education, workforce development, health care and economic opportunity for millions.

With Starlink’s reliable internet, Tractor Supply’s unmatched rural retail footprint and 4-H’s extensive youth development network, the alliance can increase access to broadband technology while providing funding for programs that develop critical life skills, expand access to STEM and support learning by doing.

“Connecting the unconnected has always been at the core of Starlink’s mission. We’re excited to work with Tractor Supply and 4-H to help bring reliable, high-speed internet to rural communities across America. By expanding access, we can support 4-H’s efforts to deliver STEM education and create new opportunities for youth,” said David Goldman, Vice President of Satellite Policy at SpaceX.

“Our rural communities are vibrant, resilient and essential to our nation’s future. Providing them with reliable broadband isn’t just about connectivity — it’s about giving the next generation the tools to build, thrive and prosper right where they are,” said Hal Lawton, President and CEO of Tractor Supply. “Since 2020, closing the digital divide has been a priority for Tractor Supply. We have leveraged the scale of our more than 2,400 stores by providing free Wi-Fi in our parking lots to help neighbors stay connected when they need it most. We are excited to work with Starlink to make even greater progress while empowering millions of young people with the resources they need to succeed.”

Since 2010, Tractor Supply has partnered with National 4-H Council to raise more than $27 million for future leaders through its bi-annual 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 Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council. “We are grateful for Tractor Supply’s continued commitment and proud to welcome Starlink as a supporter in preparing the next generation to be Beyond Ready.”