2021 Broadband Mini-Summit

This half-day virtual event focused specifically on rural broadband connectivity, examining both the persistent challenges rural communities face in accessing stable, affordable service and the practical approaches being developed to address them.

Sessions covered the role of cooperatives in rural broadband deployment, state-level partnership models, digital inclusion and digital equity programming, anchor institution connectivity, and the mechanics of public-private partnership structures for fiber deployment. Community quick pitches showcased on-the-ground broadband projects from across the country.

Featured speakers and panelists represented T-Mobile, NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Schools Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, ConnectME Authority, the Maine Broadband Coalition, the Maine Community Foundation, Purdue Center for Regional Development, LISC Rural, and the Center on Rural Innovation, among others.