Aj Benjamin

Background

About Aj Benjamin

Ariel (AJ) Benjamin uncovers creative ways to unlock asymmetric value across nearly every facet of economic development — from closing digital divides, to scaling workforce development initiatives, to creating innovative financing strategies for affordable housing, arts and culture, and the public realm. AJ is currently shaping the way that WeLink, an internet service provider, pairs its revolutionary tech with a people-first partnerships approach to build future-ready digital infrastructure in overlooked communities across the country. AJ brings a deep understanding of what the public sector seeks from the private sector, and private from public, to reach across the aisle and create impactful, long lasting partnerships. Before joining WeLink, AJ worked for nearly a decade at HR & A Advisors, Inc. and the Broadband Equity Partnership (co-founder) where she worked hand-in-hand with cities, communities, and mission-driven organizations across the country to facilitate stronger, more equitable broadband markets. AJ has been at the center of the teams developing some of the country’s most influential strategies to accelerate universal broadband access and increase digital inclusion, including the New York City Internet Master Plan, Affordable Housing Broadband Initiative for New York State, and California’s Broadband for All initiative. AJ’s work challenges her to think big to create systemic change and deep to ensure that ideas translate to action and implementation. If you see intersection with your world, please reach out — I'd love to collaborate.