Big Sky Broadband Workshop

National Telecommunications and Information Administration
Department of Commerce
August 31, 2016, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time
September 1, 2016, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time
https://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2016-07-27/pdf/2016-17734.pdf

The features subject matter experts from NTIA’s BroadbandUSA initiative and will 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 and demand aggregation, outreach, coordinating 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 about how broadband applications help communities improve economic development, workforce development and education 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 and state and nonprofit funding streams.