Digital New England

National Telecommunications and Information Administration
September 28, 2015
9:00 a.m. -- 5:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time
Portland, Maine
http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2015-08-05/pdf/2015-19229.pdf

The Digital Broadband Summit will feature subject matter experts from NTIA’s BroadbandUSA initiative and include NTIA presentations that discuss lessons learned through the implementation of the BTOP and SBI grants.

• A panel will explore key elements required for successful broadband projects using a mix of regional examples. Topics will include marketing/demand aggregation, outreach, coordination with government agencies, partnership strategies, construction and oversight.
• A second panel will explore why broadband matters in comprehensive community planning and will provide real-world examples of how broadband applications help communities improve economic development, workforce development, and educational opportunities.
• A third panel will examine business model options, including private networks, public/private partnerships, co-ops and municipal systems. Panelists will provide tips to communities on how to research funding options, make a compelling case to funders, and leverage multiple federal, state, and nonprofit funding streams. Community leaders interested in expanding economic development opportunities or commercial providers interested in expanding their markets, among others, should find the information presented at the summit valuable as they plan their broadband projects.