Broadband.io Leaders Summit
A private gathering designed to connect state broadband directors, mayors, and industry leaders in a secure and collaborative environment.
Type
Personal Project
Timeframe
16 days
Toolkit
Framer
Year
2023
Problem
The Broadband Leaders Summit needed a design foundation that matched its unique purpose: a private, highly collaborative "non-conference" for state broadband directors and mayors. The event required a professional yet approachable brand identity, as well as print and digital materials that would create a secure, engaging, and memorable environment for discussions on broadband funding, programs, and challenges. With tight timelines, high expectations, and the need to evolve the branding across multiple events, the challenge was to deliver impactful designs that resonated with diverse stakeholders while reinforcing the summit’s goals.
Solution
As the sole designer, I built a flexible branding system and a full suite of event materials that reflected the summit's unique atmosphere. From nostalgic design elements like Vice City-inspired themes to modern and professional branding, I created a visual identity that balanced creativity with professionalism.
Designing an Unforgettable Experience
The Broadband Leaders Summit wasn’t a traditional conference, and the design needed to reflect that. I began by defining the core identity of the event: a collaborative, secure, and memorable gathering for leaders shaping the future of broadband.
The branding was rooted in flexibility, with a logo and design system that could adapt to the summit’s biannual format. Whether it was BLS Miami (2022), BLS Lake Tahoe (2023), or BLS NOLA (2023), each iteration carried its unique flavor while maintaining a cohesive identity.
Print materials, like name badges, banners, and even chocolate coins, were designed to enhance the in-person experience. Digital assets, including custom slide decks and an interactive Webflow website, streamlined communication and elevated the event’s professionalism.
One standout design choice was the use of nostalgia-inspired themes, including pixel art and vibrant Vice City aesthetics. This playful approach set the tone for a conference that felt intimate and focused on fostering collaboration. By combining these elements with high-level security and a confidential atmosphere, the summit achieved its goal of being different, impactful, and “unboring.”
Overcoming Challenges
Tight deadlines and an extensive list of deliverables were the biggest hurdles. To meet these demands, I implemented meticulous tracking systems and maintained constant communication with event coordinators. This approach ensured that all materials were delivered on time without sacrificing quality.
The iterative design process played a critical role, especially with the logo. The final design was modern, versatile, and future-proof, allowing the branding to evolve seamlessly for upcoming events.
Impact That Lasts
The Broadband Leaders Summit quickly became a must-attend event for broadband leaders, drawing over 25 state broadband directors and managing $5 billion in broadband funding to date. Attendees appreciated the thoughtful branding and design that reinforced the event’s collaborative and secure environment.
The impact went beyond aesthetics. The materials I designed fostered deeper engagement, supported meaningful conversations, and ensured that attendees left with not just ideas but actionable insights. The summit continues to grow, with the upcoming BLS turning into Utility Leaders Summit (2025) promising to build on this success.
What started as a blank canvas became an evolving, impactful brand that connects leaders and creates opportunities to shape the future of utilities in america.
