SHLB AnchorNets
Access to stable broadband service allows more than 300 million Americans to stream movies, work remotely, attend virtual classes, or simply connect to the internet, but there are still an estimated 19 million U.S. residents who lack access. While the latest available Broadband Progress Report from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) notes significant progress in closing this “digital divide”, inequity is persistent in rural areas, where 25% of the population –14.5 million people – still lack access to fixed broadband at threshold speeds of 25/3 Mbps.
Alongside the efforts of corporate and government agencies such as the FCC and NTIA, the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition (SHLB) is a non-profit advocacy organization working to bridge the digital divide by promoting high-quality, affordable broadband for anchor institutions and their communities. SHLB members include schools, libraries, health providers, non-profit broadband providers, and telehealth networks. The Coalition works closely with policymakers and fellow public interest groups to develop realistic policy recommendations to close the gap.
Challenge
In early 2022, JDC helped SHLB navigate the challenges to plan and deliver a high-level conference for senior attendees who had not met in person since before the COVID pandemic.
The client returned to JDC for management of their AnchorNets conference in Alexandria, Va.
Connecting attendees with industry leaders and decision-makers, AnchorNets conferences provide an exceptional networking opportunity where folks on the front lines can meet with those behind the scenes to exchange ideas, and updates on projects, policy, and funding information.
Solution
JDC worked closely with the director of operations on all aspects of event planning and execution for the 3 day conference and exhibition. Team JDC’s professional excellence helped SHLB to successfully deliver AnchorNets 2022, and to repeat the process for AnchorNets 2023, which took place in October.
JDC’s services for both events included:
- General planning, weekly mtgs and event budget
- Venue, F&B, and hotel block management
- A/V coordination, including production design and hybrid components
- Exhibitor and exhibit hall management
- Onsite staff support and event oversight