Submit Proposals Here 

AnchorNets returns! The SHLB Coalition's Annual Conference will take place from October 10 to 12, 2023 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. 

The Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition will hold its Eleventh Annual AnchorNets Conference on October 10 -12, 2023, at the Marriott Crystal Gateway hotel in Crystal City, VA (near Reagan National Airport). We are inviting speaking proposals for two segments of the program as described below. The deadline for submissions is COB, Friday, May 26. (SHLB is working with its member policy groups on other segments of the program).

First, we are excited to continue last year’s successful Digital Equity and Inclusion Showcase.  Like last year, this year’s showcase will highlight projects, initiatives, programs, and partnerships  that promote broadband adoption in their communities.  We are looking for innovative programs at the national, state or community-level that address adoption barriers and challenges and can inform other project leaders around the country.  

Second, and new this year, is the Broadband Innovation Showcase. This Showcase seeks to highlight innovative projects that reduce time to build, create cost efficiencies or economies of scale, deploy new technologies, build new partnerships, and leverage new funding sources.  We are particularly interested in projects that include anchor institutions as a way to build sustainable networks that reach un and underserved households. This showcase provides a platform to share these innovations and the great work being done, and to inform and shape the hundreds of upcoming federal and state broadband projects.

Submission Information 

Showcase presentations are 15 minute slots with up to two speakers and should highlight the project, its impact/results, and lessons learned.  We are especially interested in proposals that feature anchor institutions although that is not required. If it is innovative and making an impact, we want to feature it!

To submit your proposal, please fill out the form below. AnchorNets speaking slots are in high demand and we will give priority to well-planned session proposals. The call for proposals closes on COB, Friday May 26.

Important Dates

• April 11, 2023 - Call for proposals opens
• May 26, 2023 - Deadline for submitting proposals
• June 5, 2023 - SHLB Staff will begin to notify speakers of selection
• July 14, 2023 - Early Bird Registration ends

Speaker Registration Discount 

Showcase speakers are encouraged to join us for the entire conference and receive a substantial discount when registering for the full conference. These contributions make SHLB’s Annual Conference possible.

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact Lauren Rachuba at lrachuba@shlb.org.