May Newsletter

ISPA unveiled the shortlist for the 16^th ISPA Awards, with Catalyst 2 and Hyperoptic leading the way with five nominations each, and FidoNet just behind with four. The ISPAs is our largest event, celebrating the best of the sector across 16 categories from broadband and hosting, to cloud, digital and VoIP. We can also confirm that Chris Townsend, Chief Executive of BDUK will give the keynote speech at the ISPAs, outlining his vision for UK broadband. Chris is new to BDUK, having been responsible for running commercial operations at the London 2012 Olympic Games and Transport for London. The ISPA Awards wouldn't be possible without the support of awards sponsors Magrathea, (Best VoIP Award) Netlynk Direct  (Internet Hero & Villain), Tagadab, (Best Use of Digital Award) and Wick Hill (Internet Safety & Security Award). The full shortlist can be seen here.

The ISPA Awards ceremony is taking place on Thursday 10^th July at the Park Lane Sheraton in London. Tickets, which include a three course meal and drinks reception can be booked here.

With less than two months to go until the ISPA Awards, there are some sponsorship options still remaining. This is a great way make yourself known to 300 senior figures from across the industry, and make these awards possible. Click here to learn more.

ISPA held an industry event with the Interception of Communications Commissioner, Sir Anthony May, on May 28. At the event the Commissioner spoke about his role and remit and identified a number of communications data questions of concerns, including errors, the use of statistics, the Data Retention Directive and the number of communications data authorisations.   The event was opened with an informative presentation from Graham Smith, partner at Bird&Bird, who gave a legal overview and highlighted the complexities and challenges around existing legislation and fundamental rights.   A summary of the event can be found here, Sir Anthony's speech here and Graham Smith presentation here.  The event was kindly hosted by ISPA Legal Forum member Bird&Bird.

ISPA Council member Kate Rennicks from Metronet represented ISPA at the launch of the Connection Vouchers scheme in Coventry. The ‘Meet the Suppliers’ event, jointly organised by DCMS and Coventry City Council, outlined how SMEs can apply for grants to cover the cost of installing superfast and highlighted the difference superfast broadband can make to small businesses.

The Net Lynk Group has grown to become one of the UK’s leading bespoke fulfilment and distribution solution providers. This achievement is based on hard work, innovation and proactive development, and has led to us working with some of the world’s largest organisations. As technology and our marketplace develops, we at Net Lynk have made it our business to stay ahead of the game by constantly investing in our IT infrastructure, warehousing and staff. Flexibility is essential to our development. Our customers are at the heart of every decision we make, above all we want their service to benefit from what we do. Thereby enhancing reputations and developing business. We are now looking forward to our next stage of growth. The investment continues and our dedication to provide the very best service remains. If you think that we can help you, or you would like to find out more, contact us today and we will happily discuss your requirements.

The ISPA Awards , broadband and copyright were the main drivers of ISPA’s media coverage in the last month with ISPA featuring in Recombu (here and here too), Cable (here too), ISP Review, uSwitch thinkbroadband Full coverage can be seen here.

ISPA members get free and discounted places at a variety of external conferences and events. Please click here to see the calendar of events.