National Tribal Telecommunications Association Broadband Summit 2024: Building a Brighter Future for Tribal Connectivity

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.