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The Largest Meeting Ground to Accelerate U.S. Broadband Broadband Nation Expo

October 9, 2024 @ 8:00 am October 11, 2024 @ 5:00 pm PDT

Gaylord Convention Center, Washington D.C.

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Connecting Rural ISPs and Government: The Role of Broadband Nation Expo

With the funding secured, the BEAD program has entered its bidding phase. State broadband offices are now asking pre-qualification questions of internet service providers (ISPs) and aiming for strong engagement. Large operators are expected to participate, but the challenge is ensuring that rural ISPs stay competitive. States leading the charge have refined their pre-qualification processes, and questions remain about when technologies like fixed wireless and satellite are appropriate compared to fiber. Moreover, collaboration between industry and government will be crucial for building the workforce necessary for these broadband expansions.

The Broadband Nation Expo (formerly the U.S. Broadband Summit) aims to bridge this gap. The event brings together over 1,000 industry and government leaders to discuss how to close the digital divide and bring internet to every home in America.


How BEAD Funding is Changing the Game for ISPs

At the heart of the BEAD program is the pre-qualification process that ensures broadband deployment is effective and inclusive. Many states have adopted best practices to streamline ISP participation, with a focus on encouraging rural engagement alongside large operators. To make these efforts successful, rural ISPs must not be left behind, and collaboration between stakeholders is crucial.

Fiber, Fixed Wireless, or Satellite: What’s Best?

While fiber remains the gold standard for broadband, fixed wireless and satellite technologies have their roles. Particularly in hard-to-reach or rural areas, states must decide when it’s appropriate to allocate funding to non-fiber solutions. By attending Broadband Nation Expo, participants can gain a deeper understanding of these decisions, and how they impact different regions of the country.

Building the Workforce: A Shared Responsibility

A robust broadband workforce is necessary to meet BEAD’s ambitious goals. This involves industry and government collaboration to ensure the workforce is trained and prepared. At Broadband Nation Expo, government and private leaders will share strategies for building this essential workforce.


Join the discussion at Broadband Nation Expo as we work to bridge the digital divide and ensure every American has access to reliable internet.

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