This event has now taken place!

Thank you to all speakers, sponsors, partners & delegates who joined us. We look forward to seeing you at the 2026 edition. In the meantime, should you wish to find out more about speaking and sponsorship opportunities at next year’s event, please contact:

[email protected]

Event Photos

Event Overview

Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity was seen by many as a game-changer for global communications. But could it truly reach its full potential, and what key factors would shape its future?

On December 8th in Washington, D.C., we hosted a one-day policy forum dedicated to exploring these critical questions. Sessions brought together key stakeholders to examine the regulatory landscape, technological advancements, emerging business models, and the challenges that lay ahead. How could industry and governments collaborate to unlock the full promise of D2D connectivity?

Join the mailing list to stay informed on upcoming related events, and do not miss the opportunity to  be part of future crucial conversations.

This event took place back to back with the Americas Space Forum.

WHO WAS BE THERE?

Speakers

Framed_Adam Cassady

Adam Cassady

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Deputy Administrator

National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)

Jay Schwarz

Jay Schwarz

Chief, Space Bureau

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

Framed_Carlos Manuel Baigorri

Carlos Manuel Baigorri

President

National Telecommunications Agency of Brazil (ANATEL)

David Goldman

David Goldman

Vice President, Satellite Policy

SpaceX

Adán Salazar Garibay

Adán Salazar Garibay

Commissioner

Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Mexico (CRT)

Framed_Isabelle Mauro

Isabelle Mauro

Director General

GSOA

Framed_Scott Patrick

Scott Patrick

Executive Director, Office of Spectrum Management

National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)

Framed_Tom Stroup

Tom Stroup

President

Satellite Industry Association (SIA)

Julie Kearney

Julie Kearney

Partner and Co-Chair, Space Exploration and Innovation Practice

DLA Piper

Sergio Sotomayor Rodríguez

Sergio Sotomayor Rodríguez

Director General

National Spectrum Agency of Colombia (ANE)

David Willis

David Willis

Group Director, Spectrum

Ofcom UK

Manuel González Farfán

Manuel González Farfán

Telecommunications Analyst

Undersecretariat of Telecommunications of Chile (Subtel)

Michal Kasprowicz

Michal Kasprowicz

Partner

DLA Piper

Kirk Sookram

Kirk Sookram

Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago

Framed_Tarun Gupta

Tarun Gupta

Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder

Skylo

Alfie Ulloa

Alfie Ulloa

Executive President

Chile Telcos

Framed_Pascale Dumit

Pascale Dumit

Director, International Spectrum Policy

T-Mobile

Mohammad Marashi

Mohammad Marashi

SVP, Future Business & Innovation

SES

Amy Mehlman

Amy Mehlman

Executive Vice-President & Chief Global Affairs Officer

Lynk Global

L. Barbee Ponder

L. Barbee Ponder

General Counsel & Vice President of Regulatory Affairs

Globalstar

J. Ryan Thompson

J. Ryan Thompson

Senior Associate, Global Regulatory

Hogan Lovells

Johanne Lemay

Johanne Lemay

Co-President

Lemay-Yates Associates (LYA)

Luis Ottati

Luis Ottati

Director of Engineering

National Communications and Media Regulator of Argentina (ENACOM)

Mindel de la Torre

Mindel de la Torre

Head of Global Regulatory Affairs

Skylo Technologies

George Giagtzoglou

George Giagtzoglou

Vice President Strategy & Marketing

Omnispace

Michele C. Farquhar

Michele C. Farquhar

Partner, Global Regulatory

Hogan Lovells

Framed_Ari Q Fitzgerald

Ari Q. Fitzgerald

Partner, Global Regulatory

Hogan Lovells

*Speaker to be confirmed

Find out more about the European edition of The D2D Policy Forum at the event website, d2dpolicy.eu

Agenda

Note: All timings are in Central European Summer Time (CEST).

The full conference agenda will be available soon, offering an in-depth overview of all sessions, speakers, and activities. Stay tuned for exciting updates!

All times are in Washington, D.C. (EST)

Day 1
2025-12-08
10:05 - 10:10
Opening Remarks
Opening Remarks image
Ari Q. Fitzgerald
Partner, Global Regulatory, Hogan Lovells
10:10 - 10:55
Keynote Presentations
Keynote Presentations image
Introduced by: Johanne Lemay
Co-President, Lemay-Yates Associates (LYA)
Keynote Presentations image
Adam Cassady
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Deputy Administrator, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
Keynote Presentations image
Carlos Manuel Baigorri
President, National Telecommunications Agency of Brazil (ANATEL)
Keynote Presentations image
Tom Stroup
President, Satellite Industry Association (SIA)
10:55 - 11:15
Session 1i: What It Takes to Deliver a Global Direct-to-Device Service
Session 1i: What It Takes to Deliver a Global Direct-to-Device Service image
David Goldman
Vice President, Satellite Policy, SpaceX
Session 1i: What It Takes to Deliver a Global Direct-to-Device Service image
Moderated by: Ari Q. Fitzgerald
Partner, Global Regulatory, Hogan Lovells
10:55 - 12:25
Session 1: Enabling D2D: Spectrum Strategies, Connectivity Models and Ecosystem Dynamics

As direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity reshapes global telecoms, two deployment models have become central: International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) and Mobile Satellite Services (MSS). While both promise new opportunities, their regulatory paths differ, and jurisdictions across the Americas (notably the U.S., Canada, and Brazil) are among the first to develop regulatory frameworks that support D2D-IMT. 

 

Inspired by this, our opening session will explore, assess, and compare the roles and impacts of IMT and MSS models for D2D. Through both the one-on-one discussion and the subsequent panel, participants will evaluate the comparative advantages and limitations of each approach and examine how these choices are shaping business strategy and market dynamics across the Americas. The session will also consider how MNOs and satellite providers are adapting, identify where regulation supports or constrains progress, and highlight best practices emerging from early adopters. 

 

  • What are the key strengths and limitations of deploying Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity using IMT and MSS spectrum frequencies across the Americas?
  • How might differences between IMT- and MSS-based D2D models shape adoption patterns in Latin America and North America?
    In what ways do these models influence coverage, reliability, scalability, and regulatory alignment across diverse geographic and economic contexts?
  • Do IMT and MSS stakeholders in the Americas share aligned goals, or do their business models and strategic priorities diverge? How are these dynamics impacting market competition, investment flows, and technological progress?
  • Is one of the deployment models likely to become the prevailing standard, or can both approaches coexist in the long term? What key factors will shape which path the market ultimately takes? What key factors in the end-user experience will determine the success or failure of various D2D business models and approaches? How crucial will elements such as cost, coverage, and quality of service be in shaping user adoption and satisfaction?
  • As countries like the USA, Canada, and Brazil take the lead in developing regulatory frameworks for D2D-IMT connectivity, how may this influence approaches more broadly on a regional and global level? To what extent could this help to serve as a blueprint for global coordination and harmonization?
  • Is there potential for a dedicated D2D spectrum band in the Americas, or indeed globally, and what would be the benefits and challenges of such an approach?
  • How do satellite operators and mobile network operators (MNOs) envision their evolving roles within the region’s D2D ecosystem? Are we heading toward increased collaboration or heightened competition between these actors?
11:15 - 12:25
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion image
Jay Schwarz
Chief, Space Bureau, Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion image
Scott Patrick
Executive Director, Office of Spectrum Management, NTIA
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion image
David Willis
Group Director, Spectrum, UK Office of Communications (Ofcom)
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion image
L. Barbee Ponder
General Counsel & Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Globalstar
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion image
Amy Mehlman
Executive Vice-President & Chief Global Affairs Officer, Lynk Global
Session 1ii: Panel Discussion image
Moderator: Johanne Lemay
Co-President, Lemay-Yates Associates (LYA)
12:25 - 13:30
Lunch
13:30 - 15:30
Session 2: Regulatory and Industry Perspectives on Direct-to-Device Connectivity

With industry accelerating momentum for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity and several countries across the Americas beginning to adopt national strategies and regulatory frameworks, Session 2 will be split into two parts, allowing us to explore both regulatory and industry perspectives in detail.

 

First, regulators from various countries in the region will present their evolving strategies. They will outline their emerging regulatory frameworks, the opportunities and challenges they anticipate, and their plans to optimize the value of D2D connectivity.

 

In the second segment, industry representatives will respond to these regulatory developments, sharing how business strategy, investment certainty, and market dynamics are being affected. The discussion will also focus on where regulation is serving as an enabler and where it is creating friction, as well as identifying promising best practices.

 

  • What are the key similarities and differences in how different countries across the Americas are approaching D2D connectivity regulation and spectrum allocation? How do these regulatory approaches compare to the rest of the world?
  • How can regulators across the Americas create a policy environment that fosters both competition and innovation, ensuring a fair and dynamic D2D market?
  • How should regulators across the region allocate spectrum and support D2D services while avoiding interference with existing networks?
  • How can policymakers balance innovation with the protection of existing terrestrial and satellite services?
  • What role will WRC-27 play in shaping the future of D2D connectivity in the Americas, particularly in spectrum allocation and coexistence between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks?
13:30 - 14:45
Session 2i: National Case Studies
Session 2i: National Case Studies image
Introduced by: Julie Kearney
Partner and Co-Chair, Space Exploration and Innovation Practice, DLA Piper
Session 2i: National Case Studies image
Sergio Sotomayor Rodríguez
Director General, National Spectrum Agency of Colombia (ANE)
Session 2i: National Case Studies image
Luis Ottati
Director of Engineering, National Communications and Media Regulator of Argentina (ENACOM)
Session 2i: National Case Studies image
Manuel González Farfán
Telecommunications Analyst, Undersecretariat of Telecommunications of Chile (Subtel)
Session 2i: National Case Studies image
Kirk Sookram
Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago
14:30 - 15:30
Session 2ii: Industry Panel Discussion
Session 2ii: Industry Panel Discussion image
Pascale Dumit
Director, International Spectrum Policy, T-Mobile
Session 2ii: Industry Panel Discussion image
Isabelle Mauro
Director General, Global Satellite Operator’s Association (GSOA)
Session 2ii: Industry Panel Discussion image
Mindel de la Torre
Head of Global Regulatory Affairs, Skylo Technologies
Session 2ii: Industry Panel Discussion image
Michal Kasprowicz
Partner, DLA Piper
Session 2ii: Industry Panel Discussion image
Moderator: Julie Kearney
Partner and Co-Chair, Space Exploration and Innovation Practice, DLA Piper
15:30 - 15:55
Refreshment Break
15:55 - 17:00
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity

As the commercial frontier for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity begins to mature, business models continue to multiply, and forecasts show strong revenue potential. Yet, as the sector evolves, the question of long-term financial sustainability becomes ever more pressing. Indeed, to achieve widespread adoption, D2D must balance affordability for users with viable returns for mobile network operators (MNOs), satellite operators, and other ecosystem stakeholders.

 

Accordingly, this session will explore emerging business models, examine which monetization strategies are proving profitable, and assess how D2D is integrating into the current connectivity ecosystem across the Americas. As countries transition from 5G toward 6G, panelists will discuss how service providers can develop scalable, sustainable models that keep services accessible (especially in underserved or low-income areas) and which commercial use cases show the most promise. We will also consider whether the current trajectory of D2D connectivity matches market expectations, or whether cost, infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles risk slowing its growth. 

 

  • What are the most commercially viable use cases for D2D in the Americas, and how do they differ across the region and address existing connectivity gaps?
  • How can D2D services be structured to remain both profitable and affordable, particularly in rural, underserved, and low-income areas? What market strategies are proving most effective in achieving this?
  • What innovative applications of D2D connectivity are expected to drive consumer adoption and reshape the telecommunications market in the Americas?
  • What high-value enterprise applications (e.g., industrial IoT, autonomous systems, smart agriculture) could accelerate D2D adoption and innovation?
  • Can D2D technology meaningfully contribute to bridging the digital divide? What role might it play in helping MNOs meet universal service obligations and expand connectivity?
  • How can financial barriers in unconnected regions be overcome, and how can these be addressed to create shared value for consumers and providers alike?
  • Looking ahead to the 6G era and beyond, what is the long-term outlook for D2D in the Americas?
  • Is the current momentum around D2D a reflection of genuine potential, or does it risk being overhyped?
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity image
Adán Salazar Garibay
Commissioner, Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Mexico (CRT)
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity image
George Giagtzoglou
Vice President Strategy & Marketing, Omnispace
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity image
Tarun Gupta
Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder, Skylo Technologies
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity image
Mohammad Marashi
SVP, Future Business & Innovation, SES
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity image
Alfie Ulloa
Executive President, Chile Telcos
Session 3: Unlocking Commercial Success: Business Models, Monetization, and Market Maturity image
Moderator: J. Ryan Thompson
Senior Associate, Global Regulatory, Hogan Lovells
17:15 - 17:20
Closing Remarks and End of Conference
Closing Remarks and End of Conference image
Michele C. Farquhar
Partner, Global Regulatory, Hogan Lovells
Select date to see events.

WORK WITH US

Sponsorship Opportunities

We have various speaking, sponsor, and wider visibility opportunities available at the event. Should you be interested in becoming involved at the D2D Policy Forum please contact Dan Craft on [email protected].

Exclusive speaking positions | Your organisation can contribute to the discussion.

Engaging and interactive format | Engage in a fully immersive and interactive debate with decision makers, businesses and policymakers.

EU and Global Outreach | Convey your message to a broad and international audience.

Networking opportunities | Networking opportunities will be available to all in person attendees throughout the day.

Visibility opportunities | Ensure maximum visibility through branding in the room, on the event website and marketing activities.

Exhibition and demos area | Showcase your products and solutions or share a position paper with the audience at  onsite exhibition booths.

From Europe to the Americas: Shaping the Future of D2D Policy

This event builds on the successful format of the European Direct-to-Device Policy Forum, bringing together leading policymakers, regulators, and industry stakeholders from across the region.Discover below how the European edition has become a benchmark for Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity policy dialogue, and how this new edition aims to extend that success by creating a key platform for forward-looking, impactful discussion in the Americas.

Also of interest...

Taking place in Washington, D.C. on December 9th, 2025 the inaugural Americas Space Forum brought together stakeholders from across the Americas to shape the future of the space ecosystem across the region. Find out more at americasspaceforum.com.

WHO WE WORKED WITH

Organisers & Partners

Organised by

Hosted by

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Hogan Lovells

Platinum Partners

DLA-Piper.png
Globalstar-website
GSOA-MASTER-LOGO-BLUE-ON-TRANSPARENT
Intelsat new logo (temporary for MENA25)
Lemay-Yates Associates (LYA)
Lynk Global
Logo_SIA
Skylo-logo-350x194-1.png
Space X
Logo_T-Mobile

Knowledge Partner

Policy Impact Partners
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AST-Space-Mobile.png
DLA-Piper.png
GSMA-new-logo-to-use.png
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Lynk-logo-350x194-1.png
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SES-350x194-1.png
Skylo-logo-350x194-1.png
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Practical Information

Event Venue

Hogan Lovells, 555 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

Suggested Accommodation

Note: Accommodation has not been booked. Hotel availability and rates are subject to change. A preferential rate has been secured only at Mint House; all other listed hotels are nearby recommendations for your convenience.

Mint House

Address: 1010 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Distance from Event Venue: 15 minutes walk (See distance in

Hotel Website

Address: 815 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Distance from Event Venue: 10 minutes walk (See distance in Google Maps)

Hotel Website

Address: 806 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Distance from Event Venue: 10 minutes walk (See distance in Google Maps)

Hotel Website

Address: 1000 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Distance from Event Venue: 5 minutes walk (See distance in Google Maps)

Hotel Website

Address: 1331 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

Distance from Event Venue: 5 minutes walk (See distance in Google Maps)

Hotel Website

Contact

For more information on any aspect of this event, please contact our team using any of the details below.

[email protected]
+44 (0) 2920 783 072

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