By Sean Dundon, Director, Partner & Channel Development at VETRO
The recent National Tribal Telecommunications Association (NTTA) Broadband Summit, held April 8-10 at the Gila River Resort in Chandler, Arizona, brought together tribal leaders, industry experts, and key stakeholders all focused on a critical mission: closing the digital divide in Tribal Nations. VETRO’s Sean Dundon joined the event, forging valuable connections with tribal customers and partners actively deploying fiber networks on sovereign lands.
A Collaborative Spirit for Sustainable Networks
The summit kicked off with a powerful message of unity. Tribal community leaders extended a warm welcome, setting the stage for a collaborative exchange of ideas. Industry representatives from diverse sectors – software companies, government agencies, equipment providers, engineering firms, and construction specialists from across the nation – came together to share knowledge and best practices.
The focus throughout the event was clear: building sustainable networks for the future. The first day offered a deep dive into education, with informative sessions on:
-
ISP Planning & Operations: Equipping tribes with the tools to navigate the intricacies of internet service provider (ISP) management.
-
Unlocking BEAD Funding: Understanding and leveraging the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program to secure vital funding for tribal broadband initiatives.
-
Building the Network Infrastructure: Expert guidance on the physical construction of a robust fiber network.
-
Marketing for Success: Strategies for effectively communicating the benefits of high-speed internet to tribal communities.
True Sustainability: Beyond the Initial Investment
A recurring theme emerged throughout the summit: the crucial goal of true network sustainability. Calix CEO Michael Weening delivered a key message – the initial government subsidy serves as capital expenditure (capex) to build the infrastructure, not to cover ongoing operational costs. The vision is clear: each tribe aspires to own and operate its own network, ensuring the best possible service for its members.
Building a self-sustaining network unlocks a wealth of benefits for the community. Skilled labor development and retention opportunities flourish alongside the network, fostering a robust local economy. Telehealth, remote education, public safety, and economic development all experience a significant boost thanks to reliable high-speed internet access.
Navigating the Funding Landscape and Regulatory Environment
NTTA facilitated valuable conversations with representatives from various government agencies, including the FBI, GAO, FCC, NTIA, BIA, FEMA, and the Department of Commerce. These discussions explored critical topics such as:
-
Understanding and accessing federal subsidy programs.
-
Fulfilling reporting requirements associated with funding.
-
Public safety considerations within the network.
-
Enforcement mechanisms for network operations.
-
A dedicated panel discussion focused on State Broadband Office directors. They shed light on the broadband maps and the challenge process surrounding BEAD funding. Tribal governments and providers gained valuable insights into how they can ensure the accuracy of broadband maps by following established procedures.
NTTA: A Beacon of Support
The NTTA serves as an invaluable one-stop shop for tribes and their partners, providing comprehensive information and resources to effectively address the longstanding challenge of poor connectivity. This one-time injection of federal funding presents a unique opportunity to unlock a brighter future for Tribal Nations. Telehealth, remote education, enhanced public safety, and thriving economic development are all within reach. The responsibility lies with network owners and providers to act as stewards of tribal connectivity, ensuring long-term sustainability and empowering a brighter future for generations to come.
About VETRO
At VETRO, we believe visualizing data unlocks hidden potential, radically simplifying the way businesses operate and digitizing the future of connectivity. We focus on empowering network operators with unparalleled clarity and control over their fiber networks, enabling them to move faster, better, and more efficiently than ever before. Our revolutionary platform isn’t just software – it’s the physical network asset system of record, offering unprecedented visibility and control from strategic planning to daily operations. We empower our customers to bridge the digital divide at a rapid pace, unlock unforeseen opportunities, and squeeze the maximum value from their networks. Let’s illuminate the unseen, digitize the way we connect, and shape the future of connectivity, together.
Related Articles
Diamond State Networks Middle Mile Summit Wraps Up in Hot Springs!
Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead The 2024 Diamond State Networks Middle Mile Summit concluded last week in Hot Springs, Arkansas, bringing together rural broadband providers and industry experts for three
Midwest Broadband Operators Conference 2024-Recap
Key Takeaways and Looking Ahead The Midwest Broadband Operators Conference (MBOC2024) wrapped up on Tuesday, May 14th, bringing together industry leaders, experts, and government officials in Indianapolis for a day
BAM! GLDS Annual MeetUp 2024-Recap
VETRO Takes Key Insights from GLDS’ BAM!24 Conference VETRO recently sent two valued team members, Niki Carnahan and Brock Hurley to the GLDS’ BroadHub Annual Meetup (BAM!24) conference held at