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WTA Spring Educational Forum – April 12-15, 2026

We’re heading to the Big Easy just days before French Quarter Jazz Fest—and there’s no better time or place to connect with industry leaders and get jazzed for the journey ahead in rural broadband. From policy developments to funding updates to implementation strategies, this forum will help you stay in rhythm with a fast-changing landscape.

Through expert-led sessions, real-world insights, and plenty of opportunities to network, you’ll leave New Orleans more prepared—and more energized—than ever to support and expand broadband in rural communities.

Come early, stay late—and be part of the movement that keeps rural America connected.

Spring Educational Forum Schedule (Subject to Change)

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Sunday, April 12, 2026
Table-Top Setup | Registration | Welcome Reception | Golf Tournament TBD

Monday, April 13, 2026
Opening Session | General Sessions | Dessert After Dark

Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Committee Breakfast Meetings | General Sessions | Dinner on Your Own

Wednesday, April 16, 2026
Committee Breakfast Meetings | General Session IV | Adjourn at 12:00 Noon | Board of Directors Meeting

2026 WTA Sponsorship Opportunities

STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT AND AMPLIFY YOUR IMPACT WITH TAILORED OPPORTUNITIES DESIGNED TO HIT ALL THE RIGHT NOTES. PARTNER WITH US IN 2026 AND TURN EVERY CONNECTION INTO A STANDING OVATION!

Are you ready to boost your brand’s visibility among industry leaders, decision-makers, and innovators? WTA invites you to join us on an unforgettable journey with tailored sponsorship packages for our 2026 Spring and Fall Educational Forums. From the vibrant energy of New Orleans to the relaxed elegance of Sonoma Valley, these destination events offer the perfect stage to elevate your brand and connect with our engaged membership.

Why Sponsor WTA’s 2026 Educational Forums?
1. Unrivaled Exposure: Gain unparalleled visibility among a diverse audience of influential industry professionals.
2. Connect with Industry Leaders: Forge valuable connections, partnerships, and collaborations with industry leaders and decision-makers in a dynamic and engaging environment.
3. Networking Opportunities: Forge meaningful connections with potential clients, partners, and industry stakeholders during our forums and networking events.
4. Leave a Lasting Impression: Showcase your brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence, leaving a lasting impression on attendees and potential customers.

2026 SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE:
1. Emerald Sponsorship Packages
2. Silver Sponsorship Packages
3. Bronze Sponsorship Packages
4. À la Carte Sponsorships are available but are not part of the sponsorship packages.

The Emerald, Silver and Bronze packages are structured based on associate member feedback; membership growth; increased attendance; and networking opportunities with industry leaders. Sponsorship packages are designed to give sponsors the opportunity for exclusive sponsorships for greater exposure. Packages provide a variety of benefits, from logo on print and digital communications; signage and visual branding to sponsored events; promotional items; event/session recognition; and more. Choosing a sponsorship package ensures continuous recognition not just during our educational forums but throughout the entirety of 2026.

Customization is available, and we are happy to fine-tune our sponsorship packages to your specific needs. Want to sponsor something not on the list? Let us know and we can work with you to develop a unique sponsorship that meets your marketing needs! Packages may be combined for additional exposure.

Get jazzed for the journey and amplify your brand’s impact at WTA’s 2026 Spring and Fall Educational Forums! Embrace the energy, connect with industry leaders, and ride the wave of opportunity. Contact Taylor Myers (taylor@w-t-a.org) to secure or customize your sponsorship package today.

View 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities

EMERALD SPONSORS

Thank you to our Emerald Sponsors for their financial support and commitment of WTA’s 2026 Educational Forums.

SILVER SPONSORS

Thank you to our Silver Sponsors for their financial support and commitment of WTA’s 2026 Educational Forums.

BRONZE SPONSORS

Thank you to our Bronze Sponsors for their financial support and commitment of WTA’s 2026 Educational Forums.

SPRING A LA CARTE SPONSORS

Thank you to all our Spring Educational Forum A La Carte Sponsors for their support and commitment.

WTA’s Educational Planning Committee Seeks Session Topics and Speaker

WTA’s Educational Planning Committee invites you to share your knowledge and expertise with the attendees at the Spring Educational Forum (April 12-15, 2026, New Orleans, LA) and the Fall Educational Forum (October 4-7, 2026, Santa Rosa, CA). WTA has always offered a remarkable lineup of education and networking opportunities targeting the needs and concerns of the WTA membership.

SUBMISSION PROCESS:
The deadline for submitting session proposals for the Spring Educational Forum is December 12, 2025 and the deadline for submitting session proposals for the Fall Educational Forum is May 1, 2026. All proposals must be submitted through the 2025 Educational Session Submission Link. Incomplete proposals will not be considered. A separate proposal must be submitted for each proposed session.

Session Submission Details Coming Soon.

2026 Session Topics & Speaker Submissions

WTA Spring Forum Registration & Payment

Spring Registration Coming Soon.

Spring Registration Information

  • WTA Broadband Member Full Registration:
    $1,095 by January 9th/ $1,195 after January 9th/ $1,295 at-the-door
    • Registration includes admittance into all educational sessions and social events (does not include golf).
  • Associate Members Sponsoring Registration:
     $1,095 by January 9th/ $1,195 after January 9th/ $1,295 at-the-door
    • Registration includes admittance into all educational sessions and social events (does not include golf). Sponsoring Registration is available to Emerald, Coral, Turquoise, and Fall A la Carte Sponsors only.
  • Associate Members NON-Sponsoring Registration:
    $1,195 by January 9th/ $1,295 after January 9th/ $1,395 at-the-door
    • Registration includes admittance into all educational sessions and social events (does not include golf).
  • Not a WTA Broadband Member Full Registration:
    $1,595 by January 9th/ $1,695 after January 9th/ $1,795 at-the-door
    • Registration includes admittance into all educational sessions and social events (does not include golf).
  • Not a WTA Associate Member Registration:
    $2,095 by August 8th/ $2,195 at-the-door
    • Registration includes admittance into all educational sessions, and receptions (does not include golf).
  • Spouse/Guest/Children 4 and older Registration (Note: Social Registrations are not for any employee/owner/board member of a telecommunications/broadband provider, industry associations, vendor/associate member, federal, state employee in the industry):
    $300 by January 9th/ $350 after January 9th/ $375 at-the-door
    • Registration includes admittance to the Welcome Reception Monday Night Tailgate Party, and the Dessert Reception. Single event tickets are NOT available for purchase.  Contact Taylor for registration pricing for children under 3.

Cancellation Policy and Liability

WTA will refund 50% of registration fees (golf, club rentals and sponsorships will not receive any refund) if written notice of cancellation (taylor@w-t-a.org) is received on or before January 31, 2026 (phone call cancellations will not be accepted). No refunds will be made for cancellation requests received after January 31, 2026

It is mutually agreed that WTA is not responsible for damaged, lost or stolen property, or personal injuries resulting from any cause. All claims for any such loss, damage or injury are expressly waived by the attendee or exhibitor.

THE ROYAL SONESTA NEW ORLEANS IS WTA’S SPRING EDUCATIONAL FORUM HEADQUARTERS

300 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA 70130  |  T: 504.586.0300

Located just 16 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, The Royal Sonesta New Orleans sits at the heart of the vibrant French Quarter on world-famous Bourbon Street—an ideal setting for WTA’s Spring Educational Forum. This iconic hotel immerses guests in the unique culture and rich history of the Big Easy, with premier attractions, lively nightlife, and historic landmarks just steps away. Blending upscale accommodations with authentic New Orleans charm, the Royal Sonesta offers a truly distinctive experience.

Guests can enjoy elegantly appointed rooms and suites, award-winning Creole and Cajun cuisine, and nightly live music that celebrates the city’s legendary jazz and blues traditions. The tropical courtyard with a heated outdoor pool offers a tranquil escape, while a 24-hour fitness center helps maintain wellness routines on the road. With warm Southern hospitality and a spirited atmosphere, The Royal Sonesta delivers a memorable and inspiring backdrop for learning, networking, and celebration.

Reserve your room here

WTA SPRING FORUM GROUP ROOM BLOCK:
WTA has secured a limited number of rooms at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans for Spring Forum attendees. Rates are based on single or double occupancy. For triple or quad occupancy, an additional charge of $40 per person, per night will apply.

The cut-off date for group reservations is March 23, 2026, or until the block is filled, whichever comes first. If you encounter any issues with your reservation, please contact Taylor Myers at taylor@w-t-a.org. Group room rates are available only to WTA-registered attendees (full or social) who are participating in the Spring Educational Forum. Guests who are not registered for the event but are booked under the group block will be subject to a rate adjustment and removed from WTA’s room block.

HOTEL CHECK-IN/CHECK-OUT TIMES:
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM | Check-out is at 11:00 AM

GROUP RATE:
Deluxe King Room: $309 per night (single/double occupancy).
Specific room types are not guaranteed; however, the hotel will make reasonable efforts to accommodate requests.

All rooms are subject to applicable fees and taxes at check-in, including resort fees, state/local taxes, parking, and any additional guest charges. A limited number of rooms at the group rate are available up to three days before and after the event, based on availability.

DEPOSIT/CANCELLATION:
All reservations must be secured with a credit card or first-night deposit at the time of booking. Standard hotel cancellation policies apply.

EARLY DEPARTURE FEE:
An early departure fee equivalent to one night’s room and tax may apply for guests who check out prior to their confirmed departure date. To avoid this fee, notify the hotel of any changes at least 14 days in advance. Please confirm the early departure policy at the time of booking.

Plan to Stay After WTA’s Spring Educational Forum. You don’t want to miss French Quarter Fest 2026!

If you’re planning to stay after WTA’s Spring Educational Forum, you’re in for a treat—French Quarter Festival 2026 is scheduled for Thursday, April 16 through Sunday, April 19, 2026, in New Orleans!

About the Festival:
French Quarter Fest is a free, four-day celebration of Louisiana music, food, and culture held in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s the largest showcase of Louisiana music in the world, featuring over 20 stages and more than 250 local acts—jazz, brass bands, funk, zydeco, gospel, and more.

Festival Highlights:
• Over 60 local food vendors offering classic New Orleans cuisine
• Performances from local legends as well as rising stars
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Riverfront stages and scenic views throughout the French Quarter

Plan Ahead:
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans is a sponsor. As this is a popular event, we recommend booking travel and hotel accommodations early if you wish to attend the festival after WTA Spring Educational Forum.

For more information and the latest schedule updates, visit the official website: https://frenchquarterfest.org

Golf Tournament TBD – Sunday, April 12, 2026

More information to come on the WTA Spring Forum Golf Tournament.

Spring Educational Forum Attire

To ensure everyone is comfortable and appropriately dressed for the occasion, we recommend Resort Casual attire throughout the event. Please also bring a jacket or sweater, as maintaining a comfortable temperature for everyone in the meeting rooms can be challenging.

RUS MEETINGS AVAILABLE

Private meetings with RUS representatives from Washington, DC may be scheduled on Monday and Tuesday. WTA invites you to take advantage of these one-on-one meetings. Appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Please complete the RUS information on the Registration Form to schedule your meeting times. If you have any questions, please contact Eric at 202-548-0202 or eric@w-t-a.org.

Questions & Special Needs

If you have any questions or need any assistance regarding the WTA Spring Meeting or need accommodations to fully participate, please contact WTA.

Call 406-443-6377 or email taylor@w-t-a.org