Wireless Broadband and Economic Growth

Wireless broadband profoundly enhances communication worldwide. It brings opportunity by connecting far-flung communities around the globe, and enables mobile-fueled innovation to flourish in a variety of different fields. In the United States, for example, rural areas of the country have benefited greatly from wireless technology. With broader access to wireless services, isolated communities are able to generate opportunities for economic development, improve education and encourage job growth.

On October 17, the Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings hosted a conversation exploring the wireless broadband policies needed to provide isolated communities with access to essential economic and social benefits. Moderated by Darrell West, vice president and director of Governance Studies, experts from the technology, business and policy arenas discussed how to leverage the full potential of broadband access to spur economic growth. Panelists addressed the investments needed to stimulate job growth in this sector, and how to extend the benefits of wireless technology to individuals, companies, non-profit organizations and governments.

After the panel discussion, speakers took audience questions.