BroadbandUSA presents a webinar on the third Wednesday of every month at 2 p.m. Eastern Time on a range of topics of interest to policymakers, decision-makers, practitioners and consumers.
Practical Broadband Conversations
BroadbandUSA presents a webinar on the third Wednesday of every month at 2 p.m. Eastern Time on a range of topics of interest to policymakers, decision-makers, practitioners and consumers.
What: Practical Broadband Conversations are monthly, hourlong webinars presenting practitioners speaking and taking questions on the range of topics addressed by BroadbandUSA, including best practices for improving broadband deployment, digital literacy, digital inclusion and e-government
Who: The webinars are open to the public and press.
When: BroadbandUSA will hold the webinars from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Eastern Time on the third Wednesday of every month.
Registration: The registration link for the next webinar is under Events on the BroadbandUSA homepage. Pre-registration is recommended. NTIA asks registrants to provide their first and last names, city, state, job title, and email addresses for both registration purposes and to receive any updates on BroadbandUSA. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
For more information: Please contact Chris Holt at broadbandusawebinars@ntia.doc.gov. General questions and comments are welcome at any time via email to BroadbandUSA@ntia.doc.gov.
July 15, 2020
Cyberinfrastructure: Moving Beyond Broadband at HBCUs and TCUs: Cyberinfrastructure differs from traditional web and broadband access in its focus and magnitude. The high-performance computing and networking resources of cyberinfrastructure enables educators, scientists and students opportunities to create and collaborate in entirely new ways—experiencing processes and results even if the technologies and data sets are thousands of miles away. Many institutions of higher education are engaged in this new kind of scholarly inquiry and education, empowering their communities to innovate and to revolutionize what they do, how they do it, and who participates. Broadband, though necessary, is not sufficient for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) to be competitive in the 21st Century.
June 17, 2020
Utilizing Federal Data to Measure the Digital Divide: Federal data can help state and local leaders and businesses understand what drives broadband adoption and utilization in their communities and target the digital divide. Join BroadbandUSA’s webinar on June 17, 2020 to learn about federal data sources, current trends, and where to access local information to inform your broadband efforts. NTIA will present the findings from their 2019 Internet Use Survey, and the U.S. Census Bureau will highlight the broadband and connectivity data available in their American Community Survey.
May 20, 2020
Using Smart Technologies to Drive Regional Transformation: Local leaders are deploying smart technologies to address regional challenges, create economic efficiencies, improve sustainability, and enhance residential quality of life. Please join BroadbandUSA on May 20 to learn more about smart region efforts in Arizona, Colorado and the Great Lakes area. These initiatives focus on economic development, water quality, and the use of artificial intelligence to create stronger and more resilient communities. Speakers will also describe their work in the Global City Teams Challenge (GCTC) Smart Regions Collaborative. The GCTC is a peer-to-peer learning and best practices development effort started in 2014 by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). In 2019, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the National Association of Regional Councils (NARC) partnered with NIST for the Smart Regions Collaborative.
April 15th, 2020
Rural Broadband: Three Service Providers Discuss Business Models and Solutions: Rural service providers continue to deploy broadband solutions and work to close the digital divide, developing strong local partnerships and sustainable business models. Please join BroadbandUSA for its April webinar on broadband topics of interest, which features three providers that utilize different technologies to bring broadband solutions to their rural communities. Panelists include an electric coop from the Virginia Piedmont, an independent telephone company serving rural areas in the Southeast, and a regional cable provider, offering a triple play of video, Internet and voice in the upper Midwest.
March 18, 2020
American Broadband Initiative – 1 year update: In 2019, the Trump Administration launched the American Broadband Initiative (ABI) with the release of the Milestones Report. A year later, federal agencies have made significant progress across government to improve broadband access for Americans. Please join BroadbandUSA on March 18, 2020 at 2pm ET to hear from key agencies that participate in the ABI who will highlight the commitments and accomplishments of this effort. The event will open with a message from the Executive Office of the President on the status of the initiative. The National Telecommunication and Information Administration will provide an update on work to build the National Broadband Availability Map (NBAM), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Chad Rupe, Rural Utilities Service Administrator, will discuss the ReConnect program and some of agency’s regulatory changes that affect broadband permitting. Finally, the U.S. Department of the Interior will cover important changes to broadband permitting policies.
February 19, 2020
The Role of States in Expanding Broadband Access: The majority of states across the country are increasing resources devoted to broadband deployment, supporting digital inclusion initiatives and focusing their attention towards broadband policy coordination across different state agencies. While there is no one size fits all, states are implementing innovative approaches to increase broadband access and adoption. Join BroadbandUSA in a conversation on how broadband is being implemented at the state level in addition to research by The Pew Charitable Trusts on state broadband programs and innovative approaches to help overcome the digital divide.
January 15, 2020
The Benefits of Smart Building Technology: Smart buildings are quickly becoming the building blocks of smart cities, providing benefits to both the building owners and tenants. They provide greater energy efficiency, improved use of building resources, and increased productivity of the occupants. Developing smart buildings can lead to an exponentially positive impact on the surrounding community. This panel will discuss smart buildings use cases, the foundational technologies that support them, and the benefits reaped.
November 20, 2019
Building Digital Workforce Skills at the Local Level: A digitally skilled workforce is essential for the economic development of our nation’s communities. Companies of all sizes need employees that understand technology, whether it’s on the business or operational side of the organization. Join BroadbandUSA to hear how local leaders are building partnerships between governments, businesses, nonprofits and education to help residents attain the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy.
October 16, 2019
Broadband’s Role in Revitalizing Main Street: Broadband connectivity helps to ensure that local communities are vibrant and successful. In parts of the country that are not fully connected, some communities are creating partnerships with local businesses, health organizations, schools and art groups to solve these challenges. These innovative partnerships leverage existing assets to build new opportunities. Join NTIA’s BroadbandUSA to hear case studies of models that are working to successfully connect Main Street in underserved areas.
September 18, 2019
Measuring the Economic Impact of Broadband: The digital economy accounted for 6.9 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product, or $1.35 trillion, according to a recent survey by the Department of Commerce. Understanding how to measure and communicate the benefits of broadband is critical to building support for efforts to expand connectivity and use. Join BroadbandUSA and leading U.S. researchers to discuss their research into the economic impact of broadband deployment and adoption in the United States.
Note: No webinar was held in August 2019
July 17, 2019
FirstNet Deployment - Status of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network: In 2012, Congress created the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) to develop, build and operate a nationwide, broadband network that equips first responders to save lives and protect U.S. communities. FirstNet has made significant strides in delivering on this mandate. Today, nearly 7,250 agencies utilize more than 600,000 connections on the FirstNet network. In addition, over 100 devices with public safety-focused features and functions are approved and certified for use on the FirstNet network. The webinar will provide an overview of FirstNet's accomplishments to date, as well as provide insights from a first-responder network user.
June 19, 2019
Building Smart Cities and Communities at the Regional Level: Regional teams that span jurisdictions and disciplines are working together on projects to address issues that impact an entire region such as economic development, resiliency, health, public safety, connectivity, agriculture, mobility, and more. Join BroadbandUSA to learn about these efforts and others that cross jurisdictional boundaries to create efficiencies, improve sustainability, and increase the quality of life for all residents.
May 15, 2019
Infrastructure Week: Leveraging Public Assets to Accelerate Broadband Deployment: State and local governments are developing new policies that provide access to rights-of-way and leverage assets in order to incentivize broadband deployment. While it is in the public’s interest to speed up access to broadband, it is a balancing act. Policymakers need to consider cost, aesthetics, digital equity, and environmental mandates. This BroadbandUSA webinar will help you learn how local, state, and federal leaders are creating broadband access for all.
April 17, 2019
HBCU Model Programs and Practices for Building a Competitive Cybersecurity Workforce
The expansion of 5G and the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) is creating an increasing need for secure networks across many platforms and technologies. Innovative programs for cybersecurity awareness, education, training, and workforce development are essential to protect and defend against potential cyber-attacks, but finding qualified people to work in this area is increasingly difficult. This webinar highlights educational programs that address training for cybersecurity professionals focusing on contributions made by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). You will also learn how the Minority Cybersecurity Council is working to bridge the gap between industry, government and education in order to inform the minority community about the growing employment and training opportunities in cybersecurity.
March 20, 2019
American Broadband Initiative: The Administration’s Strategy for Promoting Broadband Connectivity
Learn about the newly launched American Broadband Initiative and Milestones Report, which details the Administration’s strategy to expand broadband connectivity across the country. NTIA will provide an overview of the Initiative’s goals and will be joined by officials from key Agencies who are contributing to its mission.
February 20, 2019
Measuring the Digital Divide: Review of Recent Surveys and Data
NTIA and the U.S. Census Bureau will present information on two large-scale consumer studies focused on computer and Internet use in America. The speakers will highlight the latest data from the surveys about who’s online, who’s not, how and where people access and use the Internet, what concerns they have, and more. Experts will show you how to access the data yourself, point you to open data resources, and answer questions.
Note: No webinars were held in December 2018 and January 2019
November 14, 2018
Broadband Connectivity is Transforming Healthcare
Broadband connectivity is critical for many reasons, including access to quality healthcare. From remote patient monitoring to mobile health applications accessed via smartphones, tablets, or other devices, advances in telemedicine and telehealth technologies have impacted patient care and health outcomes far away from hospitals and doctors’ offices. Connected-care services significantly reduce economic and administrative costs for patients and health care providers. This webinar explored innovations in telehealth and telemedicine applications and programs that two leading universities have developed to improve patient health in their states, especially in rural and remote areas.
October 17, 2018
Federal Broadband Funding: Policies and Programs to Connect America
This BroadbandUSA webinar offered an overview of federal funding options to support increasing broadband access in communities across the United States. Learn about recent program and policy updates from officials representing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA).
September 19, 2018
Innovative and Emerging Broadband Technologies: Providing Economical Alternatives for Rural Broadband Access
This webinar focused on statewide strategies to promote broadband adoption and use in rural communities. Speakers highlighted the role of state governments, libraries and university extension programs in planning and executing these strategies. The speakers also discussed the role of broadband adoption in rural economic and workforce development, as well as approaches to facilitate broadband use and improve digital skills.
Note: No webinar was held in August 2018
July 18, 2018
Statewide Strategies for Rural Digital Inclusion
This webinar focused on statewide strategies to promote broadband adoption and use in rural communities. Speakers highlighted the role of state governments, libraries and university extension programs in planning and executing these strategies. The speakers also discussed the role of broadband adoption in rural economic and workforce development, as well as approaches to facilitate broadband use and improve digital skills.
June 20, 2018
Smart Agriculture: Increasing Productivity Through Technology
Smart agriculture engages technologies such as Big Data, GPS, IoT and connected devices to help farmers and ranchers better manage their production. Using these technologies, farmers and ranchers can improve water efficiency, produce higher quality crops and raise healthier livestock. Reliable and robust rural connectivity are fundamental to helping farmers gain benefits from new technologies. The speakers covered advances in smart agriculture equipment and sensors, the use of big data analytics for decision-making and highlight new innovation hubs, entrepreneurial support and test beds. The webinar will also featured the work of the NTIA/NIST jointly facilitated Global Cities Team Challenge Smart Agriculture and Rural SuperCluster to develop best practices.
May 16, 2018
Infrastructure Week Special: Successful Models and Best Practices for Rural Broadband Deployment
Digital technologies impact all sectors of the economy including agriculture, small town main streets, and regional economic development. Yet 31% of rural Americans still lack access to fixed terrestrial broadband speeds of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up. Increased interest in broadband is creating new opportunities leading service providers and civic leaders to find new models to expand rural broadband. We will explore three successful case studies and highlight best practices for successful rural broadband deployments.
April 18, 2018
How Smart States are Using Innovative Techniques to Enhance Technology Use
BroadbandUSA’s Practical Conversations have showcased how cities and communities are using technology to solve local issues. In the April webinar, find out how states are using smart technology and policy to enhance economic development and quality of life for their urban, suburban and rural communities. Representatives from three states and a moderator from the National Governors Association will provide examples of how they are changing healthcare delivery, improving disaster mitigation, controlling traffic and lighting, creating economic growth and enhancing public safety.
March 21, 2018
Broadband Public-Private Partnerships:Delivering Solutions for America’s Communities
Learn how to create successful broadband public-private partnerships and hear about the successes, challenges, and risks as well as specific details on implementation and management steps.
February 21, 2018
Best Practices for Enhancing Deployment of a Public Wi-Fi Network
Learn about the successes, challenges, and risks as well as specific details on implementation and management steps. Our speakers highlighted their experiences with public-private partnerships in deploying broadband networks, implementing smart cities, powering the Internet of Things, and creating digital inclusion projects.
January 17, 2018
Practical Broadband Conversations: Innovative Funding Solutions for Digital Inclusion Programs
Effective digital inclusion programs are essential for communities, supporting efforts such as workforce development, educational attainment, financial literacy and better access to health care. Finding financial support for such programs requires creative partnerships, coordination with civic leaders and messaging that articulates the benefits of such programs to communities. Join our webinar to learn how communities have funded digital inclusion programs using a variety of funding options such as local philanthropies, city budget mechanisms and private sector support.
Note: No webinar was held in December 2017
November 15, 2017
Electric Co-ops Bringing Fiber to Rural America
Electric cooperatives are capitalizing on existing infrastructure and deep community roots to bring gigabit communications to rural communities, and the results can be transformational. Just as rural electrification energized the country in the early 20th century, high capacity broadband connections are necessary for thriving communities in the 21st century. Join BroadbandUSA’s Practical Broadband Conversations webinar to learn how member-based co-ops are making the case for investment and creating new opportunities for economic prosperity
October 18, 2017
Understanding the Role of Broadband in Regional Economic Development
Broadband is a key driver of regional job creation and economic prosperity. Recognizing this, many communities are taking a cooperative approach to develop a comprehensive regional economic strategy emphasizing broadband deployment and use. Join BroadbandUSA’s Practical Broadband Conversations webinar to learn how regional economic development agencies are leveraging broadband to spur collaboration, innovation and growth.
September 20, 2017
Digital Training and Workforce Development
Communities of all sizes are recognizing the importance of developing a digitally trained workforce. Join BroadbandUSA’s Practical Broadband Conversations webinar to hear how local leaders are helping their workforce prepare for emerging industries and businesses.
Note: No webinar was held in August 2017
July 19, 2017
How Broadband is Transforming Agriculture
Broadband is enabling a revolution in agriculture practices, leading to “Smart Farms” that maximize resources by using information technology, mobile phones, apps and the Internet. Join the BroadbandUSA conversation on how broadband can help create new generation farms and farmers.
June 21, 2017
Exploring Business Model Options for Broadband Deployment
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to deploying broadband in communities, and this includes consideration of broadband business models. Join a conversation on successful broadband projects that will highlight three approaches that network owners have used to achieve their communities’ connectivity goals. The models include: a) Private owned and operated; b) Public owned and operated; c) Public owned and private operated. Representatives from network providers who have successfully employed each model will discuss the rationale for choosing a particular strategy, key benefits and trade-offs.
May 17, 2017
Next Generation Technology Deployment
Advanced communications infrastructure enables a range of next-generation technologies and smart community initiatives, including smart grids, intelligent transportation systems, connected street lights and remote healthcare. Hear fiber and wireless providers as well as local government representatives discuss how infrastructure allows them to create smarter communities.
April 19, 2017
Strategies for Broadband Adoption and Digital Inclusion in Rural Communities
This webinar will focus on strategies to promote broadband adoption and digital inclusion in rural communities, highlighting the role of libraries and university extension programs. The speakers will discuss research findings on the effect of broadband adoption in rural economic development, as well as program strategies to facilitate digital inclusion, such as mobile-hotspot lending programs, community outreach and digital skills training.
March 15, 2017
Overview of Federal Funding: Introduction to Federal Funding Opportunities for Broadband
The webinar will provide an overview of the federal programs that provide funding for broadband planning, infrastructure deployment, research, public computer access and digital literacy. Whether you are in the beginning stages of your planning process or starting to build your broadband network infrastructure, BroadbandUSA will help guide you to the appropriate federal programs for your needs and identify the necessary processes to apply for funding.
February 15, 2017
Leveraging National Data to Jumpstart Your Broadband Plan
The U.S. Census Bureau, NTIA and FCC collect and make data about availability, subscriptions and usage publicly available. Join us to do a "deep dive" into federal datasets, including the FCC Form 477 filings from broadband providers that show broadband availability, speed and technology, and NTIA's Digital Nation data, which represents the largest comprehensive national household survey on computer and Internet use. We'll also highlight how the BroadbandUSA Community Connectivity Initiative will leverage this data as part of its online assessment tool. Hear from the experts and ask your questions
January 18, 2017
Broadband Opportunity Council Accomplishments and Outlook
Since the Broadband Opportunity Council was formed in March 2015, federal agencies have made great strides toward meeting the goals and fulfilling commitments to increase broadband deployment, competition and adoption through executive actions within the scope of existing programs, missions and budget. Join BroadbandUSA to learn about the progress made and what the future holds for this interagency effort.
Note: No webinar was held in December 2016
November 16, 2016
How Does Broadband Contribute to Economic Development?
Now that broadband has been around for some time, have the promised economic benefits come to fruition? How can we measure these benefits and who in your community is benefitting? Join our BroadbandUSA webinar to learn the latest news from practitioners in the field.
October 19, 2016
What is Digital Inclusion?
Join experts from the field to hear how the definitions of “digital inclusion” and “digital equity” have evolved over time. While access to affordable robust broadband is important, people also need digital skills, access to computers and other Internet devices, and knowledge of useful applications and content in order to fully benefit from Internet access. Our presenters Emy Tseng, Broadband Program Specialist, BroadbandUSA and Dr. Roberto Gallardo Estrella, Associate Extension Professor & Leader, Intelligent Community Institute, Mississippi State University Extension will highlight some of their own digital inclusion work and discuss examples of digital inclusion programs.
September 21, 2016
Stakeholder Engagement
Our speakers for this webinar, Anne Byers and Kathy Johnson, have successfully managed broadband stakeholder engagement for Nebraska and Alabama respectively. They will share their insights to effectively recruit and manage stakeholder relationships.
August 17, 2016
State Broadband Planning: Achieving Success, Overcoming Challenges
During this webinar, presentations will be made by state broadband leaders Jeff Sural from North Carolina and Gar Clarke from New Mexico on their very best planning ideas. You will hear directly from the folks who not only spent time in the trenches--they figured out how and where to put the trench.