Name
Winning Without The Grant: Competing With Confidence In A BEAD World
Date
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Time
9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
Location Name
Ballroom C: Cobb Convention Center
Description
BEAD funding will reshape parts of the broadband landscape, but it will not determine who ultimately succeeds. This session focuses on how ISPs that did not receive BEAD awards can build durable, competitive businesses in a grant-driven environment. The conversation reframes the challenge, emphasizing operational strength, local trust, and disciplined execution as long-term advantages.
Panelists will discuss practical strategies including targeted network upgrades, pricing and packaging decisions, customer experience differentiation, local partnerships, and smart capital planning. Attendees will leave with perspective, reassurance, and actionable insights to move forward with confidence, knowing they can build, grow, and compete successfully even as subsidized networks enter their markets.
Speakers
Alex Cernik – Winncom Technologies
Claude Aiken – Nextlink Internet
Earnie Holtrey – Ready.net
Gabriel Moran – Tarana Wireless
Steve Schwerbel – WISPA