www.bekabusinessmedia.com WWW.WISPA.ORG 1 WIRELESS INFRASTRUCTURE FINANCING HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER WITH US! All-Inclusive Financing: From CPE to Fiber, we can cover it all. Fast Approval: Expect a response within 24 hours. Flexible Terms: Options ranging from 12 to 60 months. We adapt to fast-changing technology by customizing financing solutions to meet your unique business needs. Why Ritalia Funding? VISIT OUR WEBSITE David Judge Djudge@rtflease.com Sales Director 818-452-5606 RitaliaFunding.com @Ritaliafunding To make entrepreneurs succeed again, “we need to have more check writers,” said WISPAMERICA keynote speaker Robert “Bobby” Franklin as he presented what could be characterized as a Venture Capital 101 class. Franklin, President and CEO of the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) reminded attendees that venture capitalists drive much of the nation’s business successes and explained to the audience the “how” venture capital works. Answering the question as to why WISPA would turn to a venture capitalist advocate as a keynote speaker, Franklin emphasized how the organization’s membership could become advocates to ensure policyholders understand and appreciate the “ask” for capital that could permit the growth of their businesses. “You have to make the case,” Franklin stated. Referring to the need to continue expanding broadband to the unserved and underserved areas of the country, he added, “This may be one of the most important things for the improvement of America.” Franklin also spent time explaining the gamble venture capitalists take, using data that shows the overwhelming failure rate – 75 percent to 25 percent success – as well as the long-term commitment the check writers must make. This includes collaborating directly with the entrepreneur sometimes for (Continued on page 4) Speaker Emphasizes Importance of Venture Capital DAY 2
Three Simple Steps to Automated Marketing: We create your customized postcard design highlighting the “your neighbor just bought internet service from XYZ Internet (your company).” Sample propagation map You provide your propagation/network maps to us so that we can ensure that your mail only goes to your service area. We do this at the ADDRESS LEVEL—not a postal carrier route approximation. You send your new activation addresses and we mail your postcard to the closest “X” households. We do it all. Sample postcard “The Best Place to Find New Subscribers is Next Door to Current Ones!” Call Now! 800-792-8812 Learn More: Visit MarketBroadband.com Authorized ISP Marketing Portal: MarketBroadband.LorexExpress.com 1. 2. 3. Market to the Neighbors of Current Subscribers! New Installation Your Service Area Mail Around New Installation Booth 521 Automated Through Many Popular Billing Applications!
DAY 2 4 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com eight to ten years before ever receiving a return on the investment. The speaker traced the often recognized “birth” of the modern VC era to the mid1980s, when under the Reagan Administration changes were made relative to pension funds and the lowering of capital gains taxes. He said prior to the changes only about .1 percent of successful companies relied on venture capital. Since the 1985 changes, the growth has been tremendous. Franklin also recounted how venture capitalists often drive innovation by writing checks to the entrepreneurs. Using a popular example based on today’s tech news, he said 40 percent of VC went to artificial intelligence and machine learning last year. At the same time, 72 percent of businesses have integrated some AI into their processes. But it is not just tech news, “entrepreneurs are in every part of the economy,” Franklin said. To emphasize this fact, he showed where 60 percent of new drugs developed between 2012-2022 were backed by venture capitalists. One example is Moderna, which was created during the race for a COVID-19 vaccine during the pandemic. Franklin’s address followed the morning opening session, where WISPA’s vice presidents provided brief summaries on their work. These included: Louis Peraertz, Vice President of Policy; Richard Bernhardt, Vice President, Spectrum & Industry; Matt Mandel, Vice President of Government Affairs; and Steven Schwerbel, Director, State Advocacy. While each speaker directed comments to his specific area, all four speakers emphasized engagement from WISPA members and welcomed attendees to volunteer to assist their work in preventing overbuilding, encouraging additional spectrum allocations and pushing changes in the BEAD program. One way attendees can help is to participate in this year’s scheduled Congressional Fly-Ins, May 6-7. Mandel explained the Fly-ins are a powerful tool to put a “human face” on the industry, featuring members as industry advocates as they meet with legislators and their staffs regarding issues of concern to WISPs. To register, visit the WISPA website. During Schwebel’s presentation, President & CEO David Zumwalt reappeared on stage holding a large frame containing a State of Oklahoma proclamation. He announced that Gov. Kevin Stitt had declared and signed a proclamation declaring March 24-28 as Broadband Appreciation Week, to correspond with WISPAMERICA 2025. In part, the proclamation states that members of WISPA “thoughtfully and consistently deploy a ‘best tool for the job’ approach that includes all broadband technologies as solutions for individual projects.’” J Atheral, a white-label VoIP platform provider, announced the integration of advanced artificial intelligence features into its communications suite, setting a new standard for service providers seeking to enhance revenue and customer retention. The capabilities — call transcription with sentiment analysis, video conferencing integration and advanced business texting solutions — empower ISPs to deliver a superior user experience while increasing average revenue per subscriber (ARPU) and deepening customer loyalty. “Atheral has been helping service providers redefine the technology that connects us, and today marks a stunning advancement of our white-label VoIP platform,” said Daniel White, co-founder of Atheral. “We have been hard at work to build new integrations that will not only help service providers win new business in a highly competitive market but also earn more revenue from their existing voice subscribers.” Atheral’s enhancements position ISPs to offer enterprise-grade communications solutions, including: • AI-Driven Call Transcription & Sentiment Analysis – Real-time transcription, sentiment analysis and call topic summaries provide businesses with deeper insights into customer interactions. • Video Conferencing with AI-Powered Insights – A feature-rich video conferencing solution that includes live streaming, interactive engagement tools and AI-powered meeting analysis, allowing businesses to optimize productivity and decision-making. • Advanced Business Texting Solutions – A robust suite of messaging tools, including number sharing, canned responses, marketing campaigns, appointment reminders and autoresponders, giving ISPs a powerful UCaaS differentiator. “I am excited for the new opportunities we are giving our clients to solve Unified Communications problems for their endusers,” said Veronica Perrin, director of Client Success for Atheral. J To learn more about Atheral’s white-label, client-centric VoIP platform designed specifically for internet service providers, visit booth 421 on the tradeshow floor or go to https:// atheral.com. Atheral Unveils Advanced AI-powered VoIP (Continued from page 1)
Solving Fiber Deployments for Rural Environments Within the FiberFlex vast portfolio of active cabinets, the smallest footprint FiberFlex 600 delivers exactly what rural fiber expansions need as operators look to connect homes in less densely populated areas. Optimize Deployment Flexibility The FiberFlex 600 reduced footprint and mounting options offer the deployment flexibility to overcome permitting and right-ofway challenges. The all-in-one design has up to 72 internal feeder fiber distribution ports, supporting passive centralized or distributed split downstream and provides the means to add fiber, active equipment, DC power and environmental control systems. Ask Clearfield® to tell you how. Enabling the Lifestyle that Better Broadband Provides Technologies that speed your fiber broadband buildout. Learn how to simplify your deployments at SeeClearfield.com or call 800-422-2537 CLEARFIELD IS PROUD TO SUPPORT BUILD AMERICA, BUY AMERICA (BABA). 600 2000 1700 3000
DAY 2 6 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com A new administration, a change in the FCC chair and a different approach to solving the nation’s issues have brought renewed optimism to the wireless internet service providers’ sector. “WISPA is encouraged by the new administration, Congress and agencies,” said Mike Wendy, WISPA’s Director of Communications. “The broadband marketplace is primed for further growth and our companies are well-positioned for that. Very exciting times lie ahead.” Prior to the start of this week’s WISPAMERICA 2025, Wendy answered a handful of questions that focused on what WISPA members can expect with the ongoing changes in the nation’s Capitol. “With the change of administration, it appears likely that we will see less overall regulation and a greater focus on helping operators/suppliers meet the needs of their diverse marketplaces quickly and cost-effectively,” Wendy said. “Congress has been very active already on spectrum matters and making sure that BEAD conforms to its tech-neutral design,” he continued, adding that newly appointed FCC Chair Brendan Carr is supportive of the industry and “is a true believer in keeping regulations to a minimum.” Wendy said Carr also is a “champion” of bringing more commercial spectrum to the market. “America needs more spectrum to grow and thrive and meet the demands of consumers,” Wendy explained. “Wireless broadband has been a major area of growth for the industry over the past couple of years. Charmian Carr has been key on identifying and bringing more wireless spectrum to commercial use. “As we have in the past, we will be working with the chairman and the other commissioners at the FCC to ensure a balanced approach to such allocations when they occur – one which provides unlicensed opportunities, and where auctions are employed, provides meaningful access to those opportunities for smaller players,” Wendy said. “It’s a multifaceted push,” he continued. “Congress and the DoD play an essential role in identifying new spectrum, too. This process has many spinning plates with a lot of stakeholders – including in industry standards bodies – and our efforts to help bring more spectrum to the marketplace, which can be safely shared with incumbents, are deep and ongoing.” In the meantime, over at the Commerce Department, Secretary Howard Lutnick and the team being assembled at the NTIA will be focused on priming the spectrum pipeline and getting BEAD back on track, Wendy said, acknowledging that every election brings some uncertainty. “That said, we are in the right offices and speaking to the right policymakers, where our message is being well-received – WISPs are being heard,” Wendy confirmed. “WISPA believes the industry is far better positioned than it has been in the past couple of years, and we look forward to the opportunities that will result from that.” Wendy’s positive view comes despite DOGE continuing to target governmental programs in search of reducing the federal budget by at least $2 trillion. Among programs the DOGE team is reviewing were some that were included in the 2021-22 Bi-Partisan Infrastructure Bill, which set up the Broadband Equity Access Development (BEAD) program. “BEAD will not be cancelled,” Wendy stated emphatically. “All indications appear that the program will be modified, focusing on cost-effectiveness and bringing broadband out quickly to those who are unserved. “Definitions broadening the scope of what is reliable broadband are likely to occur, too,” he continued. “The program is too far along, and both sides of the political aisle are eager to get those who are unserved quickly online with BEAD support.” Wendy said WISPA is “at the table” working to protect ISPs from needless overbuilding and reducing non-telecom policy and other hurdles that discourage some small companies from participating. “WISPs that have participated in the BEAD process – especially those going after grants – should continue their work with their state broadband offices to stay abreast of any new changes as this new landscape evolves,” he advised. Even as WISPA discusses BEAD with the new industry power brokers in Washington D.C., the association continues focusing on its State Advocacy program, where it also counts some big successes during the past couple of years. To access a list of accomplishments go here: https://host8.viethwebhosting.com/~wisp/docs/WISPA_Wins_for_ You_FINAL.pdf Changes in Washington or not, Wendy said WISPA expects its members to continue to do what they always have done: “Take advantage of opportunities in the marketplace and serve those “Equipment now has never been more powerful, or affordable to acquire and service,” Wendy said. “And the cost of money is moving downward. “We’re also expecting to see fewer, not more, regulations, helping WISPs focus on business instead of lawyers and costly administration,” he continued, concluding with, “By all indications, the broadband marketplace is primed for further growth and our companies are well-positioned for that. Very exciting times lie ahead.” J ‘Exciting Times’ Ahead for Broadband Growth “America needs more spectrum to grow and thrive and meet the demands of consumers,” Mike Wendy, WISPA’s Director of Communications.
DAY 2 WWW.WISPA.ORG 7 www.bekabusinessmedia.com American Tower Enhances Twins’ Target Field Clearfield Introduces Compact Ready Connect Terminal The Minnesota Twins announced infrastructure and technology enhancements at Target Field aimed at improving convenience, efficiency and the overall fan experience for the 2025 season and beyond. Among the improvements, the Twins’ have formed a new partnership with American Tower to deliver an expansive, ballpark-wide upgrade to 5G via a state-of-the-art distributed antenna system (DAS). Once complete, cellular network coverage will be expanded by 82 percent within Target Field and will be upgraded to the 5G system for all three major mobile network carriers, significantly improving data upload and download speeds throughout the ballpark. Combined with Target Field’s existing Wi-Fi 6 system, which provides wireless local network connectivity via nearly 700 Wi-Fi access points installed throughout the venue, the entire ballpark digital fan journey – from mobile ticketing, cashless purchases and in-seat ordering, to posting and scrolling through social media – will be faster and more efficient. DAS infrastructure work began in January and is expected to be completed in September. This means improvement will be seen in several areas including: A new, market-style open concessions layout at sections 105 and 109 of the main concourse; adoption of the optional MLB Go-Ahead Entry system at select ballpark entrances; implementation of the MyVenue technology for all concession and premium seating point-of-sale locations “A hallmark of the Pohlad family’s ownership is their continued investment in, and enhancement of, Target Field to ensure our ballpark continues to evolve and provide the best possible fan experience,” said Twins Senior Vice President, Operations Matt Hoy. “This offseason has been no different, with several upgrades – both visible and behind the scenes – that modernize key aspects, markedly improve guest convenience and comfort, and elevate the overall quality of a day or evening spent at Target Field.” J For more information, visit Americn Tower at booth 211. Clearfield Inc., a provider of community broadband fiber connectivity, released the StreetSmart Ready Connect Terminal (RCT), a small, trademarked and craft-friendly fiber terminal designed for pedestal applications that supports up to eight drop connections when mid-span is needed. Developed based on the needs of the market and feedback from customers, the innovative terminal addresses key operator needs, such as space constraints, ease of installation and long-term reliability. It is optimized for small pedestals, such as Clearfield’s CraftSmart FiberFirst six-inch pedestal, providing a discreet, aesthetically pleasing solution. The Ready Connect Terminal offers exceptional flexibility in diverse application environments, including rural, suburban and urban deployments. Its design supports terminated and spliced drops and includes features such as a removable splice tray for easy fiber routing of up to 24 loose-tube fibers. These capabilities make the Ready Connect Terminal an ideal solution for operators that seek efficient, scalable and reliable fiber connections in above-ground pedestal installations. “The compact design of the Ready Connect Terminal ensures operators can meet the increasing demand for fiber broadband while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of residential and commercial spaces,” said Clearfield’s Chief Marketing Officer, Anis Khemakhem. “With its ability to handle mid-span and drop terminations, the Ready Connect Terminal simplifies the deployment process for technicians, helping network providers bridge the digital divide faster and more cost-effectively.” Features and benefits include: ● Compact Design – Optimized for deployment in Clearfield’s six-inch CraftSmart pedestal, offering a low-profile solution for residential and commercial areas. ● Ease of Access – Includes a removable splice tray and adapter plate for cleaning, scoping, and splicing, enabling technicians to complete installations efficiently. ● Robust Protection – Durable materials and lay-in grommets provide secure cable retention, ensuring long-term reliability across various environmental conditions. ● Flexible Applications – Supports mid-span splicing and drop terminations, making it suitable for diverse deployment scenarios. The StreetSmart Ready Connect Terminal is optimized to address customer needs in above-ground distributed TAP and distributed split architectures. Unlike alternative terminals, the Ready Connect Terminal is designed specifically for small pedestal applications, offering a smaller footprint and easier installation without compromising network performance. “Clearfield continues to deliver innovative solutions that simplify fiber deployments and provide a scalable solution. The Ready Connect Terminal also includes key features that provide security to the fibers and flexibility in how it’s deployed in the outside plant where space is a premium,” said Donny Colson, Director of OSP Engineering and Operations, Palmetto Rural Telephone Cooperative. “The Ready Connect Terminal fits perfectly into our plans as it gives our field installation teams splicing options, protects the fiber strands from damage from animals, and allows us to streamline deployment as it can be used with all of our member network deployments.” J More information on the StreetSmart Ready Connect Terminal can be found by visiting booth 528 or on the tradeshow floor or go to www.SeeClearfield.com.
8 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025
DAY 2 WWW.WISPA.ORG 9 www.bekabusinessmedia.com Intracom Unveils 40Gbps E-Band Radio Intracom Telecom releases its latest best-in-class product at WISPAMERICA 2025. The highperformance, dual-core E-Band radio is designed to meet the growing capacity demands of 5G and 5G+ networks. This breakthrough solution delivers: • 38 Gbit/s full-duplex capacity over a single 2,000 MHz channel • Exceptional system gain, enabling the longest E-Band link ranges available today Designed for RAN xHaul applications, Intracom Telecom’s E-Band radio provides fiber-like connectivity in areas where fiber deployment is impractical or too costly. It ensures: • Unparalleled capacity and range, delivering seamless backhaul for high-density 5G networks • Resilient and ultra-fast connectivity, supporting high-performance service delivery in challenging environments • A cost-effective alternative to fiber, empowering service providers to expand coverage and meet increasing bandwidth demands • Time to market advantage – a service provider can provision ‘fiber-like’ broadband service to subscribers at a fraction of the time required to deploy fiber. J Discover, at booth 509, how Intracom Telecom’s innovations are transforming network infrastructure and enabling smart, carrier-grade multi-gigabit transport for the Middle Mile. YOUR PARTNER FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH Visit us in BOOTH #326 BillMax.com
10 WISPAMERICA SHOW
DAY 2 WWW.WISPA.ORG 11 www.bekabusinessmedia.com 9dot..............................................................525 Actelis Networks...........................................622 AFL...............................................................539 AirWay Technologies.....................................337 Almvoy..........................................................523 Altitude Benefits & Consulting.......................129 American Tower............................................211 Arelion......................................................... T04 Atheral..........................................................421 Aviat Networks..............................................405 AW Safety Services......................................117 Azotel / Solutions4ebiz..................................231 BEC Technologies.........................................626 Bequant-QoE................................................324 BillMax Billing Solutions................................326 Calix.............................................................411 Cambium Networks................................320, M1 Ceragon Networks........................................438 Clearfield......................................................528 Comtrend......................................................529 Crown Castle................................................631 CTI Connect.................................................309 DE-CIX North America..................................635 Digicomm International.................................303 DIRECTV......................................................435 DISH Business..............................................121 Ditch Witch...................................................205 Dorado Software...........................................437 Dura-Line......................................................449 East Texas Towers, LLC................................149 Eupen Cable USA.........................................624 EyeOTmonitor...............................................620 Federated Wireless.......................................223 Fiber Instrument Sales Inc............................636 FiberLight. ....................................................131 Fibersmith.....................................................311 FISPA. ......................................................... T02 gaiia..............................................................526 Graybar. .......................................................225 Harmoni Towers............................................342 Hyperconn Pte Ltd........................................229 InSite Support Services................................445 Intracom Telecom..........................................509 IPpay............................................................409 ISP ROCK.....................................................516 ISP Supplies.................................................209 ISPN.............................................................123 Keysight Technologies..................................637 KLJ Engineering...........................................241 LEAF Commercial Capital............................T03 Legrand........................................................344 Link Technologies – TowerCoverage.............524 Lions USA Technology, Inc............................125 Live Oak Bank..............................................440 MarketBroadband.com - Lorex......................521 Micronet Communications.............................536 Miliwave Co., Ltd..........................................618 Mimosa, a Radisys Company........................535 MimoTik, Inc.................................................423 Morningstar Corporation...............................531 Musco...........................................................621 Netskrt Systems............................................330 Nucleo LLC...................................................141 NWS.............................................................630 PacketFlux Technologies..............................328 Paraqum Technologies (Pvt.) Ltd..................427 Paymentus....................................................443 Peraso Inc....................................................541 PLP...............................................................227 Positron Access Solutions.............................221 Powercode.................................................... 111 PPC Broadband............................................627 Preseem.......................................................429 Priority Wire and Cable.................................139 PSI/SMG Trailers..........................................305 RaDD Network Solutions, Inc........................538 RED Technologies........................................341 Regulatory Solutions, Inc..............................217 Rev.io. ..........................................................527 Ritalia Funding..............................................530 Rountree Towers, Inc....................................442 SAF North America LLC................................534 Safety One Training......................................448 Sandvine. .....................................................444 Sandy Beaches Software..............................425 Select Spectrum...........................................119 ServerPlus-Real Choice TV..........................348 Solara Technical...........................................436 Sonar Software.............................................340 Sparkercomm Corporation...........................T01 Splynx...........................................................219 SPX Aids to Navigation (AtoN)......................343 Streakwave...................................................537 STS. .............................................................542 Superior Essex Communications..................439 Tarana Wireless............................................403 TELTECH GROUP........................................522 TP-Link.........................................................137 Visp Limited..................................................349 WAV..............................................................419 Wavelo..........................................................628 Winncom Technologies.........................336, 518 WISDM.........................................................441 WISPA. ..........................................................M2 WISPFI.........................................................648 WI-TEK USA INC..........................................540 World Tower Company..................................629 Wuhan Da Ta Technologies Co/MegaTower..520 Zyxel Networks.............................................319 EXHIBITORS AT-A-GLANCE Company Booth Number Company Booth Number Company Booth Number
DAY 2 12 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com Experience the future of technology with Paraqum’s AI-driven solutions, designed to revolutionize network management and optimization. By integrating AI into its products, Praqum empowers WISPs with real-time insights, automated processes and enhanced decisionmaking, to ensure greater efficiency and innovation in an everevolving digital landscape. Through integration of AI, Paraqum provides unparalleled network visibility and control, optimizing Quality of Experience (QoE) for WISPs. Its intelligent solutions allow businesses to monitor network infrastructure in real-time, drive data-driven decisions and maintain seamless operations with swift response times. Paraqum Wi-Di, the company’s advanced network visibility and control platform, delivers precise analytics on bandwidth consumption, application usage and data sources, to ensure peak performance with minimal effort. Intelligent automation offers daily analytical reports and real-time alerts, keeping you informed and proactive. The Paraqum Subscriber Dashboard streamlines customer support by consolidating all relevant statistics for an IP address or customer ID in one convenient location, allowing for faster troubleshooting and improved service quality. Additionally, Paraqum’s QoE Assurance Platform redefines network intelligence and control, enhancing performance, reliability and efficiency while driving revenue growth. J For more information, visit booth 427 Paraqum’s AI Solutions Create Smarter Networks Rountree Towers solidifies its position as a leader in the wireless internet service provider (WISP) industry, offering comprehensive solutions in infrastructure deployment, backhaul design, site acquisition and network modernization. With a focus on enhancing connectivity in rural and underserved communities, Rountree Towers leverages cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships to deliver scalable and reliable broadband services. As an authorized dealer of Aviat Networks, Rountree Towers delivers state-of-the-art microwave and wireless transport solutions, providing high-capacity, cost-effective backhaul. Its expertise with Tarana Wireless enhances its offerings by introducing nextgeneration fixed wireless access technology, enabling underserved communities to access fiber-class broadband at a fraction of the cost and deployment time of traditional methods. Additionally, Aviat and Tarana comply with Build America, Buy America requirements for government-funded programs, ensuring alignment with domestic manufacturing and investment standards. “Our goal is to empower WISPs with the infrastructure and technology needed to deliver high-speed internet services to their customers,” said Michael Rountree, founder and CEO at Rountree Towers. “By providing comprehensive solutions, from site acquisition to network deployment, we enable our clients to expand their reach and improve service quality.” Rountree Towers’ expertise extends to assisting providers in navigating federally funded programs, such as the FCC’s Rip & Replace and the BEAD programs, ensuring compliance and securing necessary resources for network expansion. The company’s full-scale solutions in backhaul design, site acquisition and infrastructure deployment streamline the process of building and upgrading networks, allowing providers to focus on delivering exceptional service to their customers. J Visit Rountree Towers at booth 442 to discover how its expertise in network infrastructure, federal-funded program navigation and broadband deployment can facilitate growth and connectivity within the WISP sector. For more information, visit www.rountreetowers.com Rountree Towers Offers Infrastructure Solutions
Scan to Register www.cvxexpo.com Nov 3-5, 2025 Glendale, az
DAY 2 14 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com Calix Enables Brightspeed’s Multi-gig Services Women of WISPA Welcomes Women Leadership Series Founder Brightspeed’s technological innovation rollout powered by the Calix Broadband Platform, enables secure multi-gigabit services, enhances the in-app customer experience and offers a self-managed network solution for business owners. The rapid infrastructure deployment, completed in weeks rather than months or years, demonstrates the efficiency and scalability of the Calix Broadband Platform in accelerating experience providers’ time to market. “When we launched Brightspeed in late 2022, we committed a multi-billion-dollar investment across our footprint to deliver blazing-fast connectivity and improve our customers’ experience — and we are delivering on it,” said Brightspeed CEO Tom Maguire. “Our investment today will support the deployment of advanced technology well into the future — evolving to meet the needs of our customers as new technologies are introduced in our hyper-connected world. “Calix innovation has already helped accelerate our progress while simplifying our business so we can continue to stay ahead for our customers,” he added. Calix President and CEO Michael Weening stated, “The norm in the broadband industry used to be that launching a new service takes up to two years, with complex IT integration and operational cost. The Calix Broadband Platform disrupts the old model by enabling broadband leaders like Brightspeed to deliver powerful, secure Wi-Fi connectivity in homes and businesses without cumbersome and lengthy back-office integrations. J To learn more about the Calix Broadband Platform, visit the company’s booth, 414, on the trade show floor. The founder of the Women Leadership Series, Emily Lampkin, speaks at 9 a.m. today before at the Women of WISPA meeting in room 301CD at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. Lampkin is a highly sought-after speaker and advisor, known for empowering women leaders in corporate, non-profit, education and political sectors to hone their skills and maximize opportunities. With a pragmatic style and actionable advice, she has trained thousands of women globally through her dynamic, one-of-a-kind “Women Leaders Series” workshop. Recognized as one of Washington, D.C.’s most respected connectors, Lampkin has worked in U.S. politics for 30 years. Her passion is electing more women to political office, and she serves on the board of two of the largest PACs that support women running for Congress. She excels at threading policy and cultural priorities into communications that influence and resonate. Lampkin recently was appointed by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin as Northern Virginia’s representative to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership A frequent media contributor on major TV networks, radio, podcasts and social platforms, Lampkin is committed to building a multi-decade pipeline of diverse female leaders. She speaks regularly at universities and schools, including Georgetown University, University of Missouri, and the London School of Economics, inspiring the next generation of women. Lampkin also serves as a member of the U.S. Department of State Speakers Program, collaborating with U.S. embassies worldwide to promote core American values. As a member of the Women’s Democracy Network Advisory Council, she trains women globally to assume leadership roles in emerging democracies. Lampkin recently was appointed by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin as Northern Virginia’s representative to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Lampkin is offering a three-part learning lecture series over WISPA’s next three shows (WISPAMERICA 2025, WISPAPALOOZA 2025, and WISPAMERICA 2026). You do not need to attend all three workshops; however, if you attend all three, you will receive a certificate of completion. J The Women of WISPA Leadership Series is a free event and open to all WISPAMERICA attendees and WISPA members, regardless of gender. To learn more about the event reach out to Jennifer Lisaius at jliaius@wispa.org. Emily Lampkin, Founder, Women Leadership Series
DAY 2 WWW.WISPA.ORG 15 www.bekabusinessmedia.com the perception that FiberLight is tied to Texas. As demand for fiber grows south of Dallas and along key East Coast corridors like Atlanta to Ashburn, FiberLight is crossing borders to design new routes and to continue its aggressive expansion strategy. J Learn more by visiting FiberLight at booth 131 on the show room floor or go to https://www.fiberlight.com/. FiberLight Illuminates Fiber’s Future Infrastructure When FiberLight was acquired in April 2023, Bill Major stepped in as CEO. Since then, he and his team have reshaped the company’s trajectory, growing it from 170 to 229 employees and executing strategic network expansions. As the company expanded, Major made leadership changes to “reimagine the company.” He brought in Shane Ward as CFO, formerly with Lumos, and Chuck Girt as CTO, a longtime colleague, to “harden our network” and improve transparency in customer experiences. FiberLight’s network footprint also expanded rapidly, with more than 1,000 miles of fiber being engineered, permitted or constructed. Major is confident that during the next two years, FiberLight will grow beyond its 20,000 miles. The industry-wide AI boom has fueled data center development and fiber demand, particularly in rural markets where FiberLight has a strong presence. Major compared today’s AI-driven infrastructure buildout to the early days of the internet boom decades ago. “We’re in the infancy of AI,” he said. “These are just language learning models right now. We’re not even seeing AI’s full potential yet.” Major is confident that demand for highcapacity fiber connections will continue to grow as AI infrastructure scales. With billions of dollars in Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program funding flowing into the market, Major acknowledged its impact but clarified that FiberLight did not apply directly for funding. Instead, the company is wellpositioned to partner with last-mile fiber-to-thehome (FTTH) providers who received the funds. “Anybody that takes that money and thinks they’re going to construct 300 new miles of fiber at today’s costs is kidding themselves,” he said. Instead of overbuilding networks, many providers will look to lease or buy from existing middle-mile operators like FiberLight. Beyond BEAD, state broadband grants are also shaping the industry. “We’ve already partnered up and have been awarded as an underlying provider to enable fiber-to-the-home recipients,” Major added, signaling that FiberLight is playing a key role in these projects without directly taking on the risks of BEAD-funded builds. Looking forward, Major wants to move past
DAY 2 16 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) need tech financing to stay competitive and grow. Businesses rely on advanced tools, but buying technology can be an expensive and cumbersome process. Tech loans offer a solution, providing fast and flexible funding for these investments, which helps businesses grow. It’s important to adjust to business changes to control costs and keep purchasing plans in line with company goals. Tech financing gives SMBs flexible payment plans, regardless of their credit. Businesses in different industries face unique challenges that require tailored technology solutions. From regulatory compliance to operational inefficiencies, staying compliant and competitive often depends on the right tools. Tech financing provides a way to overcome these barriers by offering quick, flexible funding for essential upgrades. It is essential to establish a clear procurement strategy in addressing needed growth as it helps outline organizational needs, assess proper vendors and align technology acquisition with business objectives while managing costs and risks effectively. Each industry faces common challenges that require tailored technology solutions. Businesses today are turning to tech financing as a faster, more flexible alternative to traditional lending. With the increasing demand for technology upgrades across industries, companies need accessible funding solutions that support growth without disrupting cash flow. App-based financing streamlines the borrowing process, offering quick approvals, easy repayment options and the ability to adapt to dynamic business needs. Unlike traditional loans which involve lengthy paperwork and long approval times, app-based financing offers an easy, fast and efficient solution tailored to modern business needs. Effective supplier relationships are crucial in tech financing, as they help negotiate good terms and manage budgets efficiently. Additionally, tech financing aligns with organizational goals by selecting technology solutions that support long-term growth and efficiency within the organization. With dedicated support for tech financing from Ritalia Funding, you can overcome financial barriers and invest in the tools needed to grow. J If your business is ready for a technology upgrade, consult with Ritalia Funding by visiting booth 530 on the trade show floor, or go to https://www.ritaliafunding.com/ Crown Castle Inc. announced its Board of Directors has appointed Dan Schlanger, Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), as interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), as a search has begun to replace the company’s former leader, Steven Moskowitz. Board Chair P. Robert Bartolo said in a statement, “The Board determined that now is the right time to make this leadership transition to successfully complete the previously announced sale of the company’s small cells and fiber solutions businesses and transform the company into a pure-play U.S. tower business. “Looking ahead, Crown Castle will be well positioned to provide focused exposure to what we believe is the best market for wireless infrastructure in the world, and we are confident that installing new CEO leadership will put the company on the best path forward to maximize long-term shareholder value. The Board thanks Steven for his contributions to the company,” the statement said. Schlanger will continue to serve as the company’s CFO until April 1, at which time Sunit Patel will assume the role of EVP and CFO. Schlanger will serve as interim CEO until a successor CEO is identified and appointed, at which time the board intends to appoint him as Chief Transformation Officer, in which he will be responsible for overseeing the completion of the company’s sale of its small cells and fiber solutions businesses, which is expected to close in the first half of 2026. Bartolo’s statement continued, “Dan will leverage his in-depth knowledge of Crown Castle’s operations and his professional experience to complete the fiber transaction and ensure a smooth transition. He has been instrumental in helping shape Crown Castle’s strategy and is well equipped to lead the company while the board conducts a search for a CEO successor.” Moskowitz’s termination was not a result of any disagreement regarding Crown Castle’s policies or financial performance and was not made for cause or related to any ethical or compliance concern. J Crown Castle owns, operates and leases more than 40,000 cell towers and approximately 90,000 route miles of fiber supporting small cells and fiber solutions across every major U.S. market. For more information on Crown Castle, visit www.crowncastle.com. Ritalia Promotes Tech Financing to Solve Challenges Crown Castle Announces CEO Transition Dan Schlanger, Interim Chief Executive Officer
DAY 2 18 WISPAMERICA SHOW I MARCH 24 - 27, 2025 www.bekabusinessmedia.com From the trade show floor to the large opening session, WISPAMERICA 2025 provides attendees plenty of options to keep them busy.
National Over-the-Top Bulk Streaming Entertainment Solution for Multifamily NEWEST Innovation for Multifamily No Capital, No New Infrastructure No Satellite Dish Required A Partner Committed to Content Attract & Retain Residents Fast & Easy Self Installation Courtesy Accounts Available DIRECTV offers your residents a premium entertainment solution. Visit us in booth 435 or scan the code to learn more.
channelvisionmag.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTg4Njc=