Fiber Infrastructure is Foundation for AI-Driven Economy

Fiber Infrastructure is Foundation for AI-Driven Economy

Policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders discuss how fiber broadband is powering Indiana’s emerging AI economy

INDIANAPOLIS — The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) today hosted a Regional Fiber Connect in Indianapolis, convening policymakers, industry leaders, and broadband stakeholders to examine how fiber infrastructure is enabling the next generation of artificial intelligence (AI), data center investment, and digital innovation. The one-day conference highlighted the critical role fiber broadband plays in powering the massive connectivity demands of AI-driven technologies and positioning Indiana as a leader in the nation’s digital economy.

“Fiber broadband is the backbone of the AI economy,” said Marissa Mitrovich, Vice President of Public Policy at the Fiber Broadband Association. “Artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, cloud computing, and the rapid growth of data centers all depend on the speed, capacity, and reliability that only fiber networks can provide. Events like Regional Fiber Connect bring together policymakers and industry leaders to ensure communities in Indiana and across the country have the infrastructure needed to compete in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.”

A highlight of the event was a fireside chat featuring Indiana Governor Mike Braun, who joined Mitrovich to discuss how Indiana is positioning itself as a hub for next-generation technology investment. The discussion focused on the role fiber infrastructure plays in supporting high-capacity digital networks that power advanced computing, logistics, and innovation across the state.

“As artificial intelligence transforms industries and drives unprecedented demand for computing power, states that invest in strong digital infrastructure will lead the next wave of economic growth,” said Governor Mike Braun. “Fiber broadband is key for the advanced manufacturing and technology companies choosing to invest in Indiana. By continuing to expand high-speed connectivity across our state, we’re ensuring Hoosier communities are ready to compete in the AI-driven economy.”

The conversation also highlighted the importance of continued investment in broadband infrastructure. Indiana was recently awarded $868,109,930 through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, funding that will help expand high-speed internet access to underserved communities across the state while strengthening the digital foundation needed to support future AI and data-driven industries.

The Indiana Regional Fiber Connect featured FBA’s Fiber Policy Lab: Full Throttle Fiber Roundtable, which convened senior state officials and industry leaders for a candid discussion on translating broadband policy into deployment reality. The roundtable featured leaders from across Indiana government, including the Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana Department of Health, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, and the state broadband office, alongside FBA members.

The conference also featured remarks from Gary Bolton, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, along with participation from state broadband leaders, network operators, technology providers, and community stakeholders working to expand fiber connectivity across the Midwest.

The Indianapolis event is part of FBA’s 2026 Regional Fiber Connect series, which brings together regional leaders to share strategies for accelerating broadband deployment, supporting economic development, and building future-ready networks across North America.

For more information, visit fiberbroadband.org.