Breaking barriers: experts tackle strategies for nationwide broadband expansion

Tampa, Fla. (January 31, 2025) – Representatives from consulting firms, nonprofits, and state government came together for a webinar on January 23 to explore strategies for expanding broadband access across the nation.

“Broadband Access for All: A Panel on Funding, Infrastructure, and Digital Literacy” featured four leading experts, including Connected Nation’s Executive Vice President of Development & Planning, Chris Pedersen, who discussed challenges and solutions in deploying infrastructure, leveraging funding for the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, and fostering digital literacy.

Moderated by Ariel Lybarger, Associate Managing Director of Program Advisory Services for Witt O’Brien’s and Ambipar Group, the live webinar highlighted key achievements and challenges with the BEAD program, the Digital Divide, infrastructure development, and innovative programs.

When discussing state strategies and project planning for BEAD, Witt O’Brien’s and Ambipar Group’s Director of Broadband Initiatives, Kenrick Gordon, explained that though the BEAD process has taken a lot time and patience, states will soon begin to see results.

“It’s been a long time coming, but all the states are getting ready for the application phase of their BEAD programs,” he said. “In eight months or so, construction should begin on many of these projects.”

The panel also discussed some of the critical actions needed when addressing the Digital Divide and building digital skills. Miguel Fernández-Ordóñez Agra, a consultant at Boston Consulting Group, believes direct community involvement is vital to reaching underserved areas.

“Community engagement is key to shape and design these different programs,” he said.

Connected Nation’s Pedersen shared his take on approaching underserved areas and partnerships when it comes to infrastructure development.

“When we look at public-private partnerships, I think we want to really open it up to all the different forms it can take, and I think local is really effective," he said.

The panel wrapped up with some thoughts from Utah Broadband Center Director Rebecca Dilg on how her state introduces innovative programs to successfully increase broadband access in local communities. She shared advice to internet service providers (ISPs) that are looking to get communities involved in these initiatives.

“I think the best things ISPs can do is that they need to get champions in the community, and they need to have early adopters,” Gordon said.

To watch a replay of the panel, click here.