Somos

High-Level Overview

Somos Internet is a Colombian telecommunications startup focused on delivering high-speed, affordable internet to urban areas in the developing world, primarily in Latin America. It builds fiber-quality networks capable of speeds up to 1 Gbps by leveraging cutting-edge radio technology operating in unlicensed spectrum, enabling rapid and cost-effective deployment in dense, underserved urban environments where traditional fiber rollout is difficult or expensive[1][3]. Serving both residential and business customers, Somos aims to empower local communities by improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in cities like Medellín and Bogotá[1][2].

The company has shown strong growth momentum, tripling revenue and doubling active users in 2024, with over 50,000 homes and offices connected. It has raised $14 million in a Series A round to expand fiber coverage, develop proprietary hardware (such as its Orb© router), and enhance customer service[4]. Somos is now Colombia’s 14th largest fixed internet provider and is building a vertically integrated ISP infrastructure from fiber backbone to custom routers and software, positioning itself as a serious competitor to legacy telecom operators[2][6].

Origin Story

Founded in 2019 by Forrest Heath, an American entrepreneur with no prior telecom experience or Spanish language skills, Somos emerged from a vision to disrupt Latin America’s fixed internet market by simplifying complexity and focusing on rapid, affordable deployment[2][3]. Heath and his team, described as “smart pirates,” built the company with a flat, non-hierarchical culture emphasizing innovation and operational excellence[2]. Early traction came from Medellín, where poor alternatives and a strong local talent pool provided fertile ground for growth. The company quickly expanded to Bogotá and is preparing for broader Latin American expansion[2][6].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Technology Model: Uses advanced radio technology in unlicensed spectrum to deliver fiber-quality speeds without the cost and delay of laying fiber cables[1][3].
• Vertically Integrated Infrastructure: Builds and controls the entire network stack—from fiber backbone to custom routers and proprietary software—enabling superior network understanding, faster issue resolution, and cost efficiency[6].
• Cost and Performance: Offers ultra-fast (1-2 Gbps), low-latency, redundant internet at prices as low as $8/month, significantly undercutting traditional providers[6].
• Culture and Talent: Flat organizational structure with a focus on engineering excellence, attracting top talent including returnees from global tech giants[2].
• Customer Experience: In-house customer support leveraging popular platforms like WhatsApp for seamless service[2].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Somos rides the global trend of disrupting legacy telecom infrastructure by leveraging software-defined networking and innovative wireless technologies to overcome the high costs and slow rollout of traditional fiber networks. The timing is critical as urban developing regions demand affordable, reliable internet to support digital economies and social inclusion. Market forces such as increasing digital adoption, urbanization, and the limitations of incumbent telcos create a favorable environment for Somos’s model[1][6].

By building a vertically integrated, software-driven network, Somos challenges entrenched operators and demonstrates a new playbook for connectivity in emerging markets. Its success in Colombia serves as a blueprint for similar urban developing regions worldwide, potentially reshaping how internet infrastructure is deployed and managed[2][6].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Somos aims to scale beyond Colombia into broader Latin America, continuing to expand fiber coverage and deepen vertical integration with proprietary hardware and software development[4][6]. Trends such as increasing demand for high-speed internet, digital transformation in emerging markets, and the shift toward software-defined infrastructure will shape its journey.

As Somos matures, it may evolve from a disruptive startup into a dominant regional carrier, influencing telecom innovation and competition. Its people-first culture and technical architecture position it well to adapt and lead in a rapidly changing landscape, potentially inspiring similar models globally.

In sum, Somos Internet exemplifies how radical vision combined with deep execution can revolutionize internet access for urban developing communities, offering a more inclusive and efficient connectivity future.