NRECA Broadband participants will have an exclusive opportunity to directly discuss their views and challenges in deploying high-speed internet with their representatives in Congress as a key component of this year's Broadband Leadership Summit, Nov. 7-9 in Washington, D.C.

Attendees will be provided the opportunity to engage with lawmakers on Capitol Hill visits to discuss broadband issues specific to their electric cooperative. The conference will also feature sessions with policymakers on timely topics such as the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program and regulatory compliance.

“The Broadband Leadership Summit is an extremely important opportunity for NRECA Broadband participants to present a united front to policymakers in Washington," said Jeffrey Connor, NRECA chief operating officer.

“NRECA's success as an advocate depends on strong input from our members about their challenges and needs. This event is where we get around the same table and set our course together."

Registration opens Sept. 13 for this second annual conference, which is an exclusive benefit of NRECA Broadband participation.

Sessions will include updates from:

• The National Telecommunications and Information Administration on the landmark BEAD program, funding allocations to states, and how co-ops can prepare for next steps.
• The Federal Communications Commission on the national broadband maps, the Universal Service Fund, and efforts and programs related to affordability.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture on its initiatives to close the digital divide.

Last year's debut event drew leaders from the U.S. Treasury, Department of Commerce, USDA, the FCC and Congress, which welcomed lengthy Q&A sessions with co-op leaders.

“Government agency staffers clearly view electric co-ops as a valuable sounding board and constituency as they direct funding, regulatory programs and oversight," said Connor. “Participant feedback is essential to making sure NRECA Broadband is effective at representing electric co-ops' best interests in a complex regulatory arena."

The deadline to book accommodations at NRECA's discounted hotel rate is Oct. 17.

NRECA Broadband is positioning co-ops as a crucial force in rural broadband. Visit cooperative.com/broadband to learn more and sign up.