Core Insights - Kinetic Business has launched the inaugural 2025 Kinetic Business Awards: Community Champions to recognize small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) for their contributions to local communities through innovation and service [1][2] - The awards provide grants of up to $10,000 for winners to donate to a local nonprofit of their choice, with first place receiving $10,000, second place $7,500, and third place $5,000 [2][6] - The program aims to celebrate SMBs that drive positive social, economic, and environmental change, as well as digital transformation in their communities [2][3] Award Winners - First place: R.K. Adams Law of Dahlonega, Ga., recognized for its dedication to serving marginalized communities, with founder Robyn Adams actively volunteering for various boards and working with foster children and individuals with disabilities [7] - Second place: Anaheim Jack's of Ruidoso, N.M., honored for providing free meals to first responders and utility workers during the 2024 wildfires [7] - Third place: Dixie Collision, Inc. of Lafayette, Ga., acknowledged for exceptional customer care and support in navigating insurance processes [7] Company Overview - Kinetic Business, a unit of Uniti (NASDAQ: UNIT), provides business-grade fiber internet, WiFi, voice services, and managed connectivity solutions, serving over 200,000 business locations across 1,400 markets in 18 states [5]

Core Insights - A significant concern exists among consumers regarding online safety when using free public WiFi networks, indicating a demand for more secure networks in these locations [1][6][8] Consumer Sentiment - The Kinetic Business Digital Safety & Privacy report revealed that 57% of consumers feel unsafe using public or business WiFi, while only 17% feel safe, with 24% remaining neutral [2][9] - 77% of consumers express concern about their internet safety, with 60% feeling unsafe online due to current economic conditions and the rise of artificial intelligence [7][8] Data Handling Perception - Consumers' sense of safety is closely linked to their perceived control and accountability over their personal data, with trust diminishing when they feel powerless regarding data collection and usage [4][5] - Familiar and regulated entities, such as healthcare and financial institutions, are viewed as safer for handling personal data compared to distant third-party companies [5] Business Implications - The report emphasizes the necessity for businesses to implement secure guest WiFi networks and enhance transparency around data collection practices to build consumer trust [3][6][8] - As two-thirds of consumers (67%) report being more cautious with their personal data, increased customer education and awareness are essential to address public perception [3][6]