Critical New Fiber Broadband Research on AI, Permitting, and Data Centers to be Presented at Fiber Connect 2026

Critical New Fiber Broadband Research on AI, Permitting, and Data Centers to be Presented at Fiber Connect 2026

FBA adds Research Readouts to conference agenda to provide insight and guidance on top industry issues 

WASHINGTON, D.C.— (May 7, 2026)—The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) today announced it will feature Research Readouts during breakout sessions at Fiber Connect 2026, held May 17-20, in Orlando, Florida. The sessions will spotlight FBA’s most recent research exploring the industry’s most pressing issues—from permitting challenges to the growing demands of AI-driven infrastructure. Attendees will gain insight into key findings, survey data, and practical strategies drawn from studies developed by FBA committees, members, and partners, all aimed at accelerating fiber deployment and strengthening broadband networks.  

“The fiber broadband industry is navigating one of the most transformative periods in its history, with rapid growth in AI, hyperscale data centers, and digital applications that demand unprecedented network performance,” said Deborah Kish, Vice President of Research and Workforce Development at the Fiber Broadband Association. “FBA’s research program helps industry leaders understand these emerging demands and make informed decisions on building and scaling fiber infrastructure. These Research Readouts will bring key insights from our recent work directly to the attendees, highlighting the data, best practices, and real-world strategies driving faster fiber deployment across North America.” 

Highlights of the Research Readout program at Fiber Connect 2026 include: 

• AI and Networks: A Symbiotic Future — New research examining how AI and broadband networks are increasingly interdependent, shaping both network performance and infrastructure demand. 

• Permitting: From Bottleneck to Breakthrough — Insights into how outdated permitting processes delay deployment, alongside actionable strategies to streamline approvals and speed builds.  

• The Fiber Imperative for AI and Data Centers — Recent findings on how AI-driven data center growth is accelerating fiber demand—and the scale of infrastructure needed to keep pace. 

• Building Better Broadband: Standardizing Scale — Research highlighting how standardized design and engineering practices can reduce delays, lower costs, and improve the efficiency of fiber deployment. 

Explore FBA’s full research library here. To learn more about the Fiber Connect 2026 event, visit fiberconnect.fiberbroadband.org or subscribe to FBA’s Fiber Forward Weekly newsletter here to stay updated.