NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

(Monroe, LA) – Monroe’s story of innovation and collaboration could soon reach an international stage, and the community can help make it happen. Mayor Friday Ellis is part of a proposed panel for South by Southwest (SXSW) 2027, a major international conference and festival focused on technology, business, innovation and culture. Public voting for the panel is open through August 23, 2026.

The proposed panel brings together Mayor Ellis, ConnectLA Executive Director Veneeth Iyengar, Heartland Forward’s Angie Cooper and Louisiana Economic Development’s Josh Fleig to share how Louisiana is expanding broadband access and what greater connectivity can mean for communities across the state.

Monroe has a powerful story to contribute to that conversation. “As the first city in Louisiana to establish a public-private partnership bringing fiber internet access to every location within our city limits, Monroe understands what communities can accomplish through collaboration. SXSW provides an opportunity to share that experience with others,” Mayor Ellis said. The City of Monroe is committed to leveraging greater connectivity to create new opportunities for educators and students, help small businesses compete and grow, expand possibilities for healthcare providers and patients, strengthen the workforce and position the community for continued economic development.

SXSW attracts leaders, companies, media and innovators from around the world. Selection would give Louisiana a national platform to share lessons from its broadband deployment efforts and highlight Northeast Louisiana’s role in that progress. The proposal is currently open for public voting through August 23, 2026. Community votes are considered alongside evaluations from SXSW staff and industry experts. Vote for the proposed panel here.