FloridaCommerce, together with CareerSource Florida, will host the Florida Broadband Summit 2025 in Orlando from September 10-12. The event is expected to bring together over 300 participants from state and local government, workforce development, education, and the broadband industry. The summit aims to review progress and discuss strategies for expanding broadband access across the state.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, Florida has made historic investments to connect our small cities and rural communities,” said Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. “FloridaCommerce's Office of Broadband has awarded more than $708 million in funding to grant programs, extending Florida's broadband infrastructure to rural communities —continuing to create opportunities for Florida’s job seekers and job creators.”
Since 2020, FloridaCommerce has worked on initiatives that provide high-speed internet to unserved and underserved areas. A significant portion—85%—of broadband infrastructure grants have gone to small cities and rural communities. These grants are intended to help Floridians gain reliable internet access for workforce participation, education, and health services.
“Broadband access unlocks tremendous potential for Floridians,” said Adrienne Johnston, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida. “Expanding potential for job seekers to help build skills, connect with employers and participate in today’s digital economy.”
The summit will cover topics such as the BEAD Program, the Broadband Opportunity Program, applications of broadband technology, resilience against natural disasters, infrastructure deployment challenges, as well as economic and workforce impacts.
Registration is open until August 29 at https://floridajobs.org/Broadband.