DAY 1 4 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com Growing your business also is a major issue as well, and it is one reason WISPAMERICA 2025 will feature Robert Franklin, the president and CEO of the National Venture Capital Association, Franklin plans to provide an in-depth overview of the unique venture capital (VC) model, discuss VC market trends and highlight how VC drives U.S. economic growth by accelerating groundbreaking innovations, creating jobs and generating value for investors, entrepreneurs, and society. He’ll also discuss how venture capital is improving connectivity and driving efficiency gains throughout the broadband sector. But WISPAMERICA is about more than educational/informational sessions. It also is about networking, meeting and renewing friendships as well as making deals. “The great benefit of WISPAMERICA is that it’s an in-person, hands-on, kick-the-tires event,” Wendy said. “ You’re not on a Zoom call or Teams meeting – you’re actually meeting with your colleagues from across the country, seeing, sharing and learning all under one roof. “So, the best advice is to chart your path from the agenda or the Attendee Mobile app and go to the panels you want,” he continued. During your time in Oklahoma City, you’ll see people who share the same interests, Wendy said, adding, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and share your experiences during these panels – that’s exactly what they’re built for.” One of the best places to meet and greet is the exhibition floor, where attendees also can see the latest gear and services. Here attendees can gather useful information and important data on the productions and services. It’s also a good place to start, negotiate and close deals. “Consider it a one-stop showroom, with all the flavors of hardware, software and services – stuff you can experience directly,” Wendy said. So much is planned during the next couple of days, that to take it all in and survive requires thoughtful pacing. Wendy provided some survival tips: • Wear comfortable shoes. “You’re going to be on your feet a lot, and you don’t want the week to be soured by foot discomfort,” Wendy said. • Be sure to hydrate. Especially after the evening’s social events. • Don’t lose your badge. There’s a fee to replace it. • Have lots of business cards and use them. Wendy also addressed downtown Oklahoma City. “Bricktown is close providing a nice touristy area to dine and entertain, with lots of choices. You can walk there, too. The downtown is quiet at night, but the streets are safe to walk, and the people are open and friendly,” he said. Bricktown is a lively entertainment district with repurposed warehouse spaces that have become restaurants, piano lounges and chic wine bars. The district comprises an eclectic mix of shops. Most importantly, Wendy said attendees should be prepared to “Ask lots of questions… of anyone. Literally. The community is a brotherhood. You have over a thousand fellow travelers at the event. There are no wrong answers. WISPs want to share what they know. It’s just in their nature.” Wendy closed on a personal note: “I have never worked in a community that is more giving than this one.” J Venture capital often is the bedrock of any entrepreneur’s endeavor, regardless of whether the recipient is a start-up or a company looking to grow. Often it is venture capital (VC) that funds fledgling businesses that do not have the cash flow to take on the debt required for them to become successful. A form of private equity financing, companies with high growth potential – such as wireless internet service providers – often seek out VC to help them translate their business plans into business reality. Without venture capitalists gambling their money on optimistic entrepreneurs, many companies, innovations, products and services would remain nothing more than someone’s dream. Robert “Bobby” Franklin understands the ins and outs of venture capital as well as anyone. As President and CEO of the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA), Franklin has become a leader, advocate and mentor. In his role, Franklin inspires others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and drive positive change in the world. Franklin also is the keynote speaker this morning for WISPAMERICA 2025. He will speak at 9:30 a.m. in the Painted Sky Ballroom located on the fourth floor. During his address, Franklin will provide an in-depth overview of the VC model, discuss current VC market trends and highlight how VC drives U.S. economic growth by accelerating groundbreaking innovations, creating jobs, and generating significant value for investors, entrepreneurs, and society. He’ll also discuss how VC is improving connectivity and driving efficiency gains throughout the broadband sector. Franklin has led the NVCA since 2013. Under his stewardship, the association has become the leading voice of the U.S. startup ecosystem, advocating for public policies that foster innovation and drive economic growth. With a relentless commitment to supporting American entrepreneurs, Franklin has positioned NVCA as a driving force in shaping the landscape of venture capital. In 2020, he led to the public launch of Venture Forward, a NVCAconnected organization focused on cultivating a strong, diverse and inclusive venture community. Through innovative programs like VC University, Venture Forward has empowered more than 4,000 aspiring and early-career VCs, many from historically underrepresented backgrounds, fueling the pipeline of talent in the industry. Before accepting his positions at NVCA, Franklin spent a decade at the CTIA – The Wireless Association. He was on the public policy frontlines for the dawn of smartphones and the launch of the app-based economy. Prior to that, he served as Vice President of Federal Government Affairs at Alltel, demonstrating his expertise in navigating complex regulatory environments. Franklin’s journey began with a solid foundation in public service, spending seven years on Capitol Hill working for the late Sen. David Pryor (D- Ark.). J Keynote Speaker Brings VC Knowledge to WISPAMERICA 2025 (Continued from page 1)
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