As 2025 begins, the broadband industry is navigating a year of change under a new administration, with potential shifts in policy and funding priorities. Advancements like AI-powered network management, cybersecurity, expanded fiber and 5G deployment, and a renewed focus on digital equity are set to redefine connectivity nationwide. Here are insights from industry experts and leaders on how these trends, along with evolving government leadership, could shape the future of broadband for providers and consumers alike.
Gary Bolton, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association
We anticipate that 2025 will be a record year for Fiber Broadband deployment as we work toward connecting every American, raising the quality of life for generations to come. Private CapEx investment in fiber will continue to accelerate and NTIA BEAD initial proposals are approved in 55 of 56 states and territories. Grant application windows are opening in anticipation of breaking ground when the snow melts in the spring. Our industry will be celebrating this historic moment at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville – June 1-4, the largest fiber broadband event in the world.
Lexi Christensen, Marketing Director, UTOPIA Fiber
In 2025, customer experience (CX) will be a key differentiator for success in the broadband industry. Subscribers expect seamless, hassle-free interactions at every touchpoint, along with personalized, proactive service and features like easy onboarding, transparent billing, and quick issue resolution. Providers that prioritize these elements and empower customers with choice and transparency will stand out.
Angie Kronenberg, immediate past President, INCOMPAS
With full Republican control of the federal government, we can expect to see an effort in Congress and the agencies to roll back regulatory hurdles and streamline some processes to expedite broadband infrastructure deployment. Congress also will be laser focused on a tax package which likely will include a number of measures that could impact bonus depreciation, research and development, and the treatment of federal grants such as BEAD. However, the incoming Administration’s tariffs may outweigh these potential benefits for the broadband industry.
Chris Mitchell, Director, Community Broadband Networks at Institute for Local Self Reliance
We will see more money going to LEO (low earth orbit) satellites than previously expected under BEAD. The new NTIA will ignore many of the requirements of the law and though there may be lawsuits, the money will get out and there will be no major repercussions for ignoring Congress. Vendors will be angry after having built up production lines in the US that won't run at full capacity.
Brad Randall, Total Telecom and Broadband Communities
The only thing certain in 2025 is uncertainty. Established providers should be willing and ready to adapt to changing marketplace conditions, including increased competitiveness.
Arun Pasrija, CEO and President, CHR Solutions
As cybersecurity becomes increasingly complex, and service providers are more aware of the risks they face, we expect more boards of directors to play an active role in ensuring that their companies are protected against cyber threats. This trend underscores the growing understanding that cybersecurity isn’t just an IT matter—it’s a critical business issue. The conversation around cybersecurity has evolved beyond maintaining a competitive advantage; it’s a shared responsibility. Service providers are increasingly joining industry-led initiatives like CyberShare, which fosters
peer-based education and collaboration. By participating in these partnerships, providers can enhance their understanding of emerging threats and strategies, enabling them to make informed decisions to protect their infrastructure.
The 2025 tealeaves have never been less clear. For every report claiming BEAD’s demise, there are conversations in traditionally red states working to drive the IIJA’s broadband funding forward. One thing is for sure, nimble projects with diverse capital stacks and scrappy partners will likely prevail in the new year.
What do you think is ahead in 2025? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us a line: hello@harry.marketing
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