[Washington, D.C.] – [August 19, 2026] – Today, Internet Works announced that Block, Inc., a global financial technology company focused on increasing access to the economy, has joined the association as its newest member.    

Block, which is made up of Square, Cash App, Afterpay, TIDAL, Bitkey, and Proto, brings a small business payments and consumer finance perspective into the coalition’s ongoing advocacy for right-sized tech policy for the first time.  The addition marks a significant milestone for Internet Works, bringing the coalition to 32 diverse members, representing a 60% increase in membership since the association expanded its policy platform in January 2025. 

“Welcoming Block to Internet Works represents the culmination of a record year of growth, proving that the Middle Tech message is breaking through across the industry,” said Peter Chandler, Executive Director of Internet Works.  “Block’s commitment to expanding access to the global economy and building a safe, inclusive digital economy aligns with our mission to protect the open Internet.  Block is bringing their unique perspective in financial services and digital commerce to the table, strengthening our collective voice as we continue to advocate for smart, right-sized policies that foster innovation across all corners of the tech industry.” 

“Everything we build at Block, whether it’s Square helping a small business get online or Cash App putting financial tools directly in people’s hands, depends on an Internet that’s open to companies of all sizes, not just the largest platforms,” said Chrysty Esperanza, Chief Legal Officer at Block.  “We’re joining Internet Works to continue fighting for policy that’s calibrated to real-world risk and scale, instead of one-size-fits-all rules written with only the biggest companies in mind.  We look forward to working with the coalition to keep expanding access to the economy for the sellers, individuals, families, artists, and developers we serve.”

Block’s mission of economic empowerment goes beyond building innovative products and services to include its commitment to creating meaningful, lasting benefits for customers and communities.  This dedication to ensuring innovation leads to access makes Block a natural partner in Internet Works’ mission, as we continue to work collaboratively with regulators and stakeholders to ensure the Internet remains a place of limitless possibility. 

About Block: 

Block, Inc. (NYSE: XYZ) builds technology to increase access to the global economy.  Each of our brands unlocks different aspects of the economy for more people.  Square makes commerce and financial services accessible to sellers.  Cash App is the easy way to spend, send, and store money.  Afterpay is transforming the way customers manage their spending over time.  TIDAL is a music platform that empowers artists to thrive as entrepreneurs.  Bitkey is a simple self-custody wallet built for bitcoin.  Proto is a suite of bitcoin mining products and services.  Together, we’re helping build a financial system that is open to everyone.  Block.xyz

About Internet Works: 

Internet Works is a coalition of 32 diverse members working together to right-size regulatory technology policy, to foster trust, and promote safety online so that the Internet remains a place of limitless possibility and innovation.  For more information, please visit www.TheInternet.Works.