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How do you keep the damn things running?

This is not an easy proposition. The danger of getting into Community Networking, and even CTCs, is that expectations will be raised through a project that cannot be sustained beyond the project. That's not good.

To be successful in the longer haul, you must:

• Think "sustainability" from the beginning.
  • Develop strong, meaningful collaborations based on service delivery and mutual interest, not on money
    • Think big about partnerships -- national, international, even
    • Real collaborators, with real buy-in, should kick in a buck
    • Develop a strong, supportive board willing to help find money
    • Develop plans, a business plan, marketing plan and technology plan, but remember the Eisenhower Principle.
  • Think of ways to minimize costs, inlcuding a strong volunteer corps
• Think of ways to make money, not just spend it
  • What kinds of services could you provide that are worth charging for?
  • Is the value of the service worth more than it costs to bill for it?
  • What do potential "customers" need?
  • Of course, seek grants, but don't rely on them