The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), is continuing a series of monthly webinars to gather input on the development of the BroadbandUSA Connectivity Assessment Tool (BCAT).

What: A key BroadbandUSA resource, the BCAT will support our technical assistance efforts by providing communities with a comprehensive self-assessment tool and report which will enable them to better understand how their current policies and programs support broadband connectivity. In addition, the Initiative will provide an index or comparative connectivity score and access to an expanding community of practice.

Who: NTIA is seeking input from the public and broadband stakeholders nationwide such as local, state, federal and tribal government; leaders in healthcare, education, workforce development, economic development; and trade and industry. Participants in the collaborative webinars will review the Initiative framework; review assessment questions and response options; co-design the structure and content for the report and recommendations; and identify supporting resources and tools to aid local communities.

When: The BCAT webinar series will be held on the second Thursday of each month starting on July 14, 2016, and ending in January 2017.

Registration:These "virtual" meetings are open to the public and press. Pre-registration is recommended. Participants can register for one or more webinars in the series at Connectivity Initiative Webinars Registration.

Agenda:The agenda of each webinar will address the development of each of the BCAT’s three resources for local communities: (1) a Connectivity Initiative framework; (2) an online self-assessment tool; and (3) a report and recommendations customized for each participating community.

Each webinar will include a 15-20 minute overview and update on the BCAT and a discussion topic pertinent to the 2016 development and program roll-out. General questions and comments are welcome at any time during webinars via email to BroadbandUSA@ntia.doc.gov. Webinar agendas and relevant documents will be posted here as they become available.

For more information: Please contact Karen Archer Perry at KPerry@ntia.doc.gov.