Join the University of Illinois Extension, the Illinois Office of Broadband, and the Illinois Broadband Lab to discuss the latest developments in state broadband mapping resources.
About the Speakers:
Shubhika Agarwal is the Assistant Director of Broadband Data & GeoAnalytics at the Illinois Broadband Lab, where she leads data-driven broadband planning initiatives. She plays a pivotal role in the state’s $1.04 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, facilitating outreach and mapping efforts to accurately identify the unserved and underserved areas with broadband infrastructure needs across the state. Through the Connect Illinois program, Shubhika has contributed to the review of broadband infrastructure projects, helping allocate ~$350 million in state funding to expand digital access. She is also collaborating with state agencies and regional partners to establish a digital equity source of truth and SDEP progress tracker, providing communities across Illinois with a centralized tool to advance digital equity. Her expertise in GIS and community engagement empowers local leaders to implement strategic broadband solutions.