Volunteers were selected and trained to actually operate the network and perform the daily system maintenance functions. Determining the hardware requirements and telecommunications requirements needed to implement the system, as well as the costs involved for the initial system startup. Soliciting local support from individuals, organizations, and businesses in the community. This step was critical because the basic premise upon which a Free-Net system can operate successfully involves community support, participation, and volunteerism for the operation and maintenance of the system. Those making initial contributions and serving as sponsors included a local bank, an auto dealership and a private citizen.
Funding is obtained primarily with an annual fund drive and sponsor donations.
Three levels of sponsor donations and tax-free contributions exist, each providing varying levels of support and services for use of the network. Obtaining legal status as a nonprofit organization from state and federal authorities. Consequently, the organization would obtain tax-free status, and neither federal nor state taxes would be required for operational purposes. Before the actual implementation of the system components, an effort was made to involve as many social service, human resource, and community oriented agencies as possible. These included the local hospital and health organizations, local library, Chamber of Commerce, the school system, local churches, Extension Service, etc. 5.