By Doug Green, Publisher, Technology Reseller News

PORTLAND, OR — At this year’s ITA Showcase, I sat down with Daniel Holbrook of the Oregon Broadband Office, an organization working to expand high-speed internet access across the state’s diverse geography. With Oregon’s unique mix of dense urban centers, remote rural communities, and challenging terrain, broadband connectivity remains a critical economic and social priority.

A Mission to Connect Every Oregonian

The Oregon Broadband Office, part of Business Oregon, is dedicated to securing and distributing funding—whether through state or federal grants—to help bring reliable broadband to every county in the state. "There are three counties in Oregon larger than nine U.S. states, each with fewer than 10,000 people,” Holbrook noted. “That speaks to the remoteness and scale of the challenge we face.”

The challenge isn’t just one of infrastructure; it’s economic as well. While Oregon has invested heavily in technology and innovation, much of that progress has been concentrated in population centers. The state is now working to extend that growth into rural areas by funding broadband expansion, digital equity programs, and technical assistance.

The Role of ITA Showcase

At ITA Showcase 2025, Holbrook and his team are engaging with internet service providers (ISPs), MSPs, and technology partners to explore how they can collaborate. "We’re here to connect with the industry, share opportunities, and ensure that broadband expansion aligns with what the market needs," he explained.

The Oregon Broadband Office offers funding programs for:

Broadband deployment grants for infrastructure projects.

Technical assistance and planning support.

Digital equity initiatives focused on access, education, and adoption.

Why This Matters for Businesses

For organizations operating in Oregon—whether through remote sites, retail locations, warehouses, or service contracts—broadband access can be a make-or-break factor in scaling operations. Holbrook encourages businesses to explore how state funding can support expansion efforts, network upgrades, and connectivity solutions.

Learn More

To explore grant opportunities or learn more about Oregon’s broadband initiatives, visit broadband.oregon.gov.

As connectivity continues to shape the future of economic development, the work of the Oregon Broadband Office remains critical—ensuring that no community is left behind in the digital age.