BROADBAND COMMUNITIES SUMMIT 2025
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
All times are listed in CST
Texas, 23 - 25 June 2025
Schedule
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Enabling Middle Mile Infrastructure in the US
Middle Mile Pre-Event Session 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
- Bridging the gap between core internet backbones and local service networks
- How can expanding middle-mile infrastructure support the promotion of digital equity?
Middle Mile Infrastructure in Rural America
Middle Mile Pre-Event Session 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
- What models can rural ISPs use for co-owning Middle Mile?
Internet Exchange Points are Middle Mile Infrastructure
Middle Mile Pre-Event Session 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm
- What roles do IXPs play in expanding broadband access?
- Cost efficiency
- Regional network resiliency
- Encouraging local and regional connectivity
The New BEAD Policy Notice: Course Correction or RDOF 2.0?
Presented by the American Association for Public Broadband
After a brief summary of the new BEAD policy guidance and its pros and cons, attendees are invited to share their reactions, raise concerns and strategize together.
Beyond Bulk: From Planning to Delivery for Resident Experience and Satisfaction
- Introduction to bulk billing programs
- Explore various bulk billing models, including tiered pricing, custom plans, and flexible options that cater to diverse communities
- Practical insights into the key questions to ask, how to vet providers, and best practices for creating and managing bulk billing programs
- Strategies for marketing and operation success
Double Your Impact: Unlocking Private and Public Capital to Power Broadband Expansion
Presented by American Association for Public Broadband (AAPB)
With billions in BEAD and government funding on the table—and private investors eager to deploy capital—broadband leaders have a rare opportunity to supercharge expansion. But success requires a smart strategy that blends both funding sources effectively.
In this focused session, you’ll get the latest updates on BEAD timelines, requirements, and how to build a winning application. You'll also learn what private investors want to see, how to pitch your growth story, and how to align financial planning with long-term goals.
Whether you're scaling an ISP, leading a Tribal broadband effort, or guiding an investment-backed provider, this session will equip you with the tools to stack your capital strategy and fuel sustainable growth.
Join us to learn how to secure the funding you need—and turn capital into community impact.
Broadband's Evolving Role in Multifamily: Strategy, Infrastructure, and Investment
- How broadband influences property value, leasing, and competitive positioning
- The evolving responsibilities of management companies, emerging technologies, and regulatory shifts
How to get Started and Be Successful! Politically, Financially, Technically
Presented by American Association for Public Broadband (AAPB)
Learn the key steps to building a broadband network, from gaining political support and securing funding to overcoming technical challenges. This panel will provide strategies for obtaining governmental backing, leveraging financial resources, building strategic partnerships and addressing technical requirements for successful implementation. Learn to engage with your community to be a truly successful broadband provider.
Key Topics:· Securing Political Support: Communicate broadband benefits to policymakers and stakeholders.· Funding Strategies: Explore funding options and create compelling proposals.· Technical Challenges: Design, select equipment, and deploy a scalable network.· Regulatory Compliance: Navigate regulatory requirements effectively.· Community Engagement: Engage the community and gain public support.
Join us for this panel discussion to gain the knowledge and tools needed for successful broadband network implementation.
Welcome Reception Co-Sponsor by Calix and UniTek
Co-Sponsor ~ Calix and UniTek Global Services
Welcome to our event! To kick off the event, we invite you to our Welcome Reception, a relaxed and enjoyable gathering where you can meet fellow attendees, network, and get a sneak peek at what's in store for the event. Refreshments will be provided, and a light spread of appetizers will ensure you're well taken care of as we set the tone for the days ahead. Whether you're here to connect, learn, or simply enjoy the company of like-minded individuals, the Welcome Reception is the perfect opportunity to begin your journey with us.
Create your personal agenda –check the favourite icon
Networking Before the Event
Enjoy a cup of coffee, make valuable connections, and discover what’s new in the industry
You can also use the mobile app to connect with exhibitors and attendees for networking opportunities.
Chair's Opening Remarks
The Chair's Opening Remarks will officially kick off our event, setting the stage for an inspiring and engaging experience ahead.
Multifamily State of the Industry
Multifamily State of the IndustrySet the stage for an insightful exploration of the current landscape in the multifamily sector.
Updates from State Broadband Offices on Progress and Challenges
- Ongoingefforts and challenges faced by state-level broadband initiatives
- Progress updates of BEAD from the State Broadband Offices
- BEAD non-deployment funds, how are these being spent
- What are the impacts for the future?
Choose Your Connection that Changes Everything
Presented by AT&T Connected Communities
Status of Moving Pieces and Navigating Uncertainty from Industry Leaders
- Exploring the impacts of new policies and regulatory changes
- Navigating an uncertain economy while mitigating risk exposure
- Understanding the connectivity landscape in the current administration
- Will tariffs impact BEAD deployments?
Exhibit Hall
Exhibit Hall OpenThis is your chance to connect directly with exhibitors, discover cutting-edge solutions, and gain valuable insights into the tools and technologies that are shaping the future of the industry.Whether you're looking to network, learn about new trends, or find solutions to your business needs, the Exhibit Hall provides a dynamic and interactive environment to engage with key players.
You can also use the mobile app to connect with exhibitors and attendees to networking opportunities.
Lunch & Exhibit Hall Exclusive Hours
Stop by the Exhibit Hall to recharge while connecting with fellow attendees and industryprofessionals.
You can also use the mobile app to connect with exhibitors and attendees to networking opportunities.
Property Staff Experience
Sponsor by Spectrum Community Solutions
Close by invitation only.
Navigating the BEAD Process
- Insights from communities who have successfully won funding
- Discussion of common challenges faced when applying for the BEAD grant
- Practical advice for communities at any stage of the BEAD application process
Connecting the Unconnected: Advancing Digital Equity
- Strategies for addressing the digital divide and promoting digital equity in the US
- Understanding and addressing the key barriers to digital inclusion
Multifamily Town Hall
MULTIFAMILY DAY 1 sponsored by AT&T Communities
- Explore key industry trends and legal updates
- Insights into state and federal regulatory changes
- FCC developments that impact property owners, operators, and residents
Addressing Barrier to Network Deployment
- Optimize partnerships and resource allocation
- Overcome regulatory and logistical hurdles
- Improve project management for timely deployment
- Enhance supply chain resilience
- Ensure access to skilled labor and key materials
From Greenfield to Growth: Pioneering a Sustainable Broadband Model for Rural Communities
Open Access for All
- How much BEAD money is being spent on open access networks
- How to maximize and utilize functionality of open access networks
- Open access success stories
- Infrastructure sharing: can we open broadband infrastructure for other applications?
Finance 101: Getting to Grips with the Available Options
- Back to basics: What financing options are available for community broadband projects?
- Demystifying finance: from private equity to banking loans, municipal bonds to tax programs
Transforming Brownsville
Success Stories that Make a DifferenceA journey towards a smart, secure and connected city
Infrastructure Strategies for Multifamily Broadband
MULTIFAMILY DAY 1 sponsored by AT&T Communities
- Critical broadband infrastructure strategies for multifamily properties
- Explore fiber-to-the-unit, Cat6A cabling, structured wiring for new builds, and retrofitting pathways for brownfields
- Learn about the technical role of Wi-Fi 7 and how to align infrastructure with property types, including garden-style and BTR townhouse communities
- Tips for creating infrastructure that is ready for changes in the future to maximize ROI and enhanced building resilience
Inspiring Communities: Signals of Change
Success Stories That Make A Difference: Telecom's Role in Helping End Trafficking
Redefining the Standard: Why Bulk Managed Wi-Fi is the Future of Multifamily Living
In today's competitive multifamily market, connectivity is more than just a service. Renters expect fast, reliable internet from the moment they move in, and property managers are looking for ways to simplify operations and reduce costs. In this session, Bart Giordano, President of RUCKUS Networks, will explain why bulk managed Wi-Fi is becoming the preferred approach for multifamily properties. He will discuss how technologies like Wi-Fi 7, AI-driven service assurance, and edge networking are helping communities improve resident experiences, increase property value, and stay ahead of regulatory changes. Using real-world examples, Bart will highlight how RUCKUS supports property owners and operators with future-ready, scalable solutions.
Understanding the Options: Public Funding
- Choosing the right program for your project
- What public funding options are available, e.g. Federal and State Programs, municipal bond financing?
Empowering Communities to Tackle Digital Exclusion
- How do you ensure that digital equity policies match community's needs?
- How to translate the policy from state to community level?
- Strategies for facilitating an open dialogue between policy makers and community
- Working with community organizations to further digital inclusion programs
Building Secure and Resilient Infrastructure
- Demand for infrastructure that can withstand evolving challenges
- Safeguarding physical assets to ensuring cybersecurity
- Building infrastructure that can rapidly recover from disruptions
- Importance of Digital Inclusion in Disaster Response
Innovating the Resident Experience: Multifamily Connectivity Solutions
- MULTIFAMILY DAY 1 sponsored by AT&T Connected Communities
- How broadband technologies can be optimized to enhance the resident experience
- Providing intuitive support systems and fostering engagement through resident apps and platforms
- Explore what providers can implement and owners can request to meet resident expectations
- Strategies to align bulk and retail experiences, streamline service delivery, and elevate resident satisfaction with innovative broadband solutions
Inspiring Communities: From Vision to Impact
Success Stories that Make a Difference: From Vision to Impact
A Model for Community-Driven Broadband and Digital Opportunities Expansion
Connected Buildings: Moving from Devices to Intelligence to Experience
Connected Buildings: Moving from Devices to Intelligence to ExperiencePresented by RealPage Whitesky Communications
Let's Work Together: Access to Rights of Way, Easements, Poles, Ducts and More
- Are local and state officials ready to manage the permitting process?
Private Financing of Broadband Networks
- What are the pros and cons of private investment in the fiber sector?
- Choosing the right partner: what are private entities looking for in potential partners?
Affordability: Ensuring Every Community has Access to Affordable Broadband
- Educating communities on affordability programs
- The role of the ISP in providing affordable broadband services for consumers
- Understanding what funding programs are available for low-income families and consumers
- Policy context
What's Next: The Future of Managed Service Providers
- MULTIFAMILY DAY 1 sponsored by AT&T Connected Communities
- Discover a future roadmap for Managed Service Providers from adoption of Wi-Fi 7 to AI-powered solutions and actionable data tools
- Emerging innovations that redefine connectivity, resident experiences, and operational efficiencies
Exhibit Hall Reception Sponsored by RealPage Whitesky Communications & Juniper Networks
Sponsored by RealPage Whitesky Communications & Juniper Networks
Unwind and connect! Enjoy refreshments at this informal reception, where you can engage in meaningful conversations with industry leaders, peers, and potential business partners.
You can also use the mobile app to connect with exhibitors and attendees to networking opportunities.
Create your personal agenda –check the favourite icon
Broadband Communities Awards Breakfast~ Sponsored by Verizon Enhanced Communities
Join us as we announce the winners for this year's Broadband Communities Awards
Great Communities
This deep dive focuses on remarkable multifamily communities that showcase the potential of high-speed broadband deployment and the transformative impact it can have on residents' lives. By highlighting these communities, the exploration offers a detailed look at how seamless access to advanced internet services improves daily living, education, work, and overall community development.
Modera Trinity (Dallas, Tx)
Preserving the Universal Service Fund: Why Congress Should Guarantee Affordable Internet Connectivity for All Americans
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Beyond Fast: Exceeding Today's Speed Demands While Building a Network for Tomorrow
Presented by Spectrum Community Solutions
Future Broadband Networks
- Perspectives from service providers on the future of high-speed internet, including advancements in 5G, fiber optics, and satellite networks.
- How to ensure equitable access, improve network reliability, and meet the growing demand for faster and more efficient connectivity.
Exhibit Hall
This is your chance to connect directly with exhibitors, discover cutting-edge solutions, and gain valuable insights into the tools and technologies that are shaping the future of the industry.Whether you're looking to network, learn about new trends, or find solutions to your business needs, the Exhibit Hall provides a dynamic and interactive environment to engage with key players.
You can also use the mobile app to connect with exhibitors and attendees to networking opportunities.
Multifamily Owners Roundtable
Closed forum for property owners, managers, and owner representatives only.
Lunch
Stop by the Exhibit Hall to recharge while connecting with fellow attendees and industryprofessionals.
You can also use the mobile app to connect with exhibitors and attendees to networking opportunities.
The Role of Research and Education Networks and Their Community Anchor Institution Members
- Ensuring equitable access to broadband and digital services for communities
- Ongoing need for investment in research, education, and community networks
Maximize the Potential: Managed Wi-Fi is Not a Set It and Forget It Technology
- MULTIFAMILY DAY 2 sponsored by DIRECTV
- Advanced solutions for mesh networks, edge computing, and personalized resident portals
- How to provide practical strategies like optimizing Wi-Fi performance, cost reduction, and enhancing user satisfaction
- How ongoing management and innovation can drive operational efficiency and maximize ROI
Legal Frontiers: Unpacking Today's Most Pressing Challenges
- Navigating complex regulatory environments
- Managing permitting and licensing issues
- Legal risks and liabilities in network deployment
- Contractual negotiations and vendor relationships
- Ensuring data privacy and security compliance
- Addressing funding and subsidy requirements
Building the Business Case for Rural Broadband Investments
- How to build a sustainable business case for rural infrastructure investments
- Future considerations: how to manage the costs of running the network after build
Inspiring Communities: Washington State University-Extension
Success Stories that Make a Difference:Broadband Action Teams and Community Action Plans for Digital Equity
The Future is Turnkey: Connected Building for a Seamless Property Journey
Presented by Xfinity Communities
Connectivity Today
What Does a Successful Community Partnership Look Like?
Bob Thompson, Underline Founder & CEO, and Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President & CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC sit down together to discuss what communities need from private partners like fiber builders, what it means to build a true fiber-to (and for)-the-community network, and some examples of what deep partnership and collaboration looks like.
Putting Together a Plan B: Strategies for Addressing the Connectivity Gaps That Will Remain After BEAD
- What other funding options are there?
- How can alternative funding work alongside BEAD?
- What's next in digital equity?
Multifamily Legal Leaders
- MULTIFAMILY DAY 2 sponsored by DIRECTV
- FCC & Multifamily Industry Focused
- Expert legal debate
- Current FCC updates to new legislation and prop tech needs
- What impacts can we expect for broadband in the Multifamily industry
- Discussion of fee transparency and implications
Investing in Education and Training Programs to Close the Skills Gap
- Investing in training programs
- Tapping into new pools of talent
- The value of upskilling and reskilling
Rural Tribal Connectivity
- Building a Sustainable Digital Ecosystem for Tribal Communities
- Disparities in Fixed and Wireless Broadband Access
- Barriers to Access: geographic isolation, limited infrastructure, and funding constraints
- Solutions and partnerships that help bridge the digital divide in rural and tribal areas
Maximizing Impact Through Public-Private Partnerships
- What to look for in partnership?
- Finding the right partner for your project
- Managing expectations and requirements of stakeholders from the public and private sector
Strategies for Increasing Adoption of Broadband Services
- How to market your services to increase sales and drive customer uptake of your services?
- Educating customers on the benefits of switching to new fiber products
- Differentiating your services vs. your competitors
- Is there a commercial opportunity in offering affordable broadband services: more subscribers, more ROI?
Powering Up America: Broadband and Smart Grids (Co-ops)
- From smart grid to broadband
- From broadband to smart grid
Exhibitor Move Out
Exhibitor Move Out
Understanding How Infrastructure Can Be the Key to Economic Growth
- How can municipalities and industry collaborate to ensure the success of a project?
- How to approach community engagement to ensure the success of a project?
- Unlocking new services for communities thanks to better infrastructure, e.g. telehealth, education
- Strategies for promoting inclusive socioeconomic growth through better infrastructure
Smarter Communities: Integrating Proptech for Success
- MULTIFAMILY DAY 2 sponsored by DIRECTV
- Explore transformative impact of smart home technology and PropTech
- Insights on smart building integrations, predictive analytics, and cost-effective deployment strategies that drive energy efficiency, improve operations, and enhance resident satisfaction
- Real-world examples of IoT devices, personalized technology solutions, EV charging, and more
Building Digital Skills: How to Approach AI
- How can communities capitalize on the opportunity of AI
- AI Literacy and Security
- AI Skills Building
- AI Ethics
Communities across the country are asking the same questions: How do we prepare for AI? What do we need to know to stay safe and make the most of the opportunities it offers? Yet the reality is that most communities are still in the early stages of capacity building and lack a coordinated strategy for adopting AI effectively and ethically.
This panel brings together experts from diverse backgrounds to explore where we really are with AI preparedness at the local level—and what steps are needed next. Panelists will examine foundational components of a community approach to AI, including literacy and digital safety, skill-building across sectors, and ethical use frameworks at both the individual and institutional levels. From practical strategies for civic engagement to reflections on local governance and education, this discussion offers a grounded and honest look at the path ahead for communities navigating the AI era.
Improving Telehealth Access in Rural Colorado Through Data-Driven Insights
- Case Study by Connected Nation partnered with Colorado’s Office of eHealth Innovation (OeHI)
- What are some of the biggest challenges that rural households face that prevent them from using telehealth services?
- How can an education campaign successfully improve telehealth service usage?
- How can this effort be replicated in other states or regions?
GET INVOLVED
Sponsorship and exhibition
opportunities
Nancy McCain
+1 281-342-9655
nancy.mccain@totaltele.com
Laura O’Reilly
laura.oreilly@totaltele.com
Conference program & speaking
opportunities
Dennise Argil
+1 281-342-9655
dennise.argil@totaltele.com
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