it could also include a local agency fed up and finally looking to provide a service Comcast, AT&T, etc refuse to provide/expnad/etc.

In gold rush area along Highway 49 in Califnornia you have two prominent Coop/Local solutions .. Plumas Sierra Telecom who provides service to Plumas, Sierra and (I believe) Lassen county with different broadband options... PSREC has been adding fiber options.

Down towards Volcano/Sonora/Hwy 88, you have Volcano Communications.

In each case, rural communities stepping up where AT&T/Comcast and others step aside. These are endeavors I happily support.