DALLAS, TX, Airband Communications, Inc., the largest provider of fixed-wireless voice and data services to businesses in the U.S., today announced it has signed an agreement with ABRY Partners, LLC, to provide $20 million of financing to further accelerate Airband's growth both organically and through mergers and acquisitions. As part of its investment, Boston-based ABRY Partners will have a seat on Airband's board of directors.

Business demand for data connectivity, high-speed Internet access and voice over IP (VoIP) services is driving significant growth at Airband, both in terms of the number of customers and bundled services purchased. With fresh growth capital from ABRY Partners, Airband plans to expand network coverage and capacity in existing markets; consolidate existing debt facilities to optimize capital structure; and acquire fixed-wireless providers with contiguous geographic operations to complement Airband's existing territory.

"The surging demand for high-quality data, VoIP and business continuity services and the explosion of cloud-based computing present us with exceptional growth opportunities," said Airband CEO Michael Ruley. "With this new capital, we can increase our network coverage to better support regional and national accounts, including marquee brands that want Airband services in hundreds of locations."

Airband created unparalleled market presence last year by merging with Sparkplug Communications. The company has grown significantly by offering customers a portfolio of services that meet their demand for high-bandwidth access, transition from traditional voice services to VoIP and network diversity from wireline providers. Since the merger, Airband has formed a powerful platform for future growth with its market presence, focused set of telecommunications services and financial strength.

"The fixed-wireless industry is in high-growth mode, but at the same time it's very fragmented," Ruley said. "We believe that Airband's financial strength and market position are attractive to local fixed-wireless providers looking to be part of a national company with significant long-term opportunities."

"We are excited to join the current shareholders of Airband and its management team in their growth plans," said Nicolas Massard, Principal at ABRY Partners. "We believe the company is very well positioned and will benefit greatly from the rapid adoption of high-bandwidth intensive applications by enterprises."

Airband serves 17 markets across the U.S. including Atlanta; Austin; Baltimore; Dallas; Des Moines; Fort Lauderdale; Fort Worth; Houston; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Miami; Orange County, Calif.; Philadelphia; Phoenix; San Antonio; San Diego and Washington, D.C.

About Airband
Airband Communications, Inc. is the largest fixed-wireless voice and data provider for businesses in the U.S. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of high-speed Internet access, point-to-point data services, Voice over IP, security and other managed solutions - delivered over one of the industry's most scalable last-mile networks. Airband bypasses the local phone and cable companies to provide faster provisioning intervals, immediate scalability and complete redundancy for its customers. Thousands of businesses nationwide already count on Airband for their broadband service.