April 12,2010

Washington, D.C. - The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and the Organization for the Promotion and Advancement of Small Telecommunications Companies (OPASTCO) announced that the two organizations have signed a friendship agreement that is designed to enhance the benefits each trade group offers to its members.

The agreement sets forth an arrangement for the organizations to work together to support networking events, promote technology solutions and consider regulatory issues of common importance.

"Through this joint effort with TIA, OPASTCO plans to make our meetings even more vibrant and compelling," said OPASTCO President John N. Rose. "This is a unique opportunity to further enhance the value of our events, including our convention and trade show, for our carrier members. This in turn augments the experience for our exhibitors and sponsors. It's a classic ‘win-win' that will make our meetings even more productive for all participants."

TIA President Grant Seiffert stated, "Working with OPASTCO brings TIA members an opportunity to engage with 530 rural carriers through an organization that is dedicated to advancing telecommunications services and addressing operator needs. At this critical juncture when the federal government is focused on expanding the buildout of rural broadband networks, the TIA/OPASTCO cooperative agreement allows members of both associations to take advantage of opportunities to engage with one another and generate business opportunities to support the deployment of new and evolving telecom technologies in America's heartland."

OPASTCO and TIA will share specific member benefits of interest to its respective memberships.