BT has launched an initiative to extend access to broadband internet access to some of Britain's remotest areas.
Community Broadband involves attracting sponsorship from local public and private bodies.
The extra money will be used to install asymmetrical digital subscriber line (ADSL) technology in small exchanges.
Six-month trials will begin in the autumn in selected areas, including Drumnadrochit at Loch Ness and Lyndhurst in the New Forest.
Other trial locations include Corwen in Denbighshire, Burnham Market in Norfolk and Muir of Ord to the west of Inverness.
A sponsor's contribution will be £7,000, which goes towards the installation of a unit to support 16 users.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise is sponsoring the Drumnadrochit trial, while the Lyndhurst scheme has the backing of the New Forest Business Partnership.
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