1. Broadband Infrastructure & Technology PartnersDefinition: Companies, engineers, and service providers specializing in fiber optics, wireless solutions, network deployment, and supply chain management, contributing technical expertise and infrastructure solutions.
2. Community Broadband AdvocatesDefinition: Individuals and organizations working to promote broadband as a public utility, digital equity, and infrastructure expansion in underserved areas. They focus on policy advocacy, public education, and community-driven broadband solutions.
3. Digital Inclusion & Equity ChampionsDefinition: Organizations and individuals focused on bridging the digital divide through affordability programs, digital literacy initiatives, and ensuring that broadband access is equitable and inclusive.
4. Funding & Policy ExpertsDefinition: Professionals in broadband financing, grants, and public funding mechanisms who provide guidance on securing resources for broadband projects, such as those available through federal programs like BEAD and RDOF.
5. Municipal & Cooperative Network OperatorsDefinition: Representatives from city-owned, tribal, and cooperative broadband networks, sharing best practices, operational insights, and strategies for sustainable, community-owned broadband deployment.