Our Mission

What we do for the ecosystem

WBA is the leading organization driving the adoption of wireless broadband and championing the development of the converged wireless broadband ecosystem. Through the seamless, secure and interoperable connection of unlicensed wireless broadband services, we enable outstanding user experience for more than 2 billion global subscribers through our member operators.

Wi-Fi and unlicensed wireless has now become a serious part in the telecommunications field. With an important role in 5G development, and on-going convergence between licensed and unlicensed wireless, Wi-Fi will have a significant impact on the future of wireless communications. Futhermore, the Wi-Fi and unlicensed communities are stepping outside of their traditional role of providing connectivity to consumers toward vertical market specific sectors such as the IoT, M2M devices and service platforms. We help to enable this convergence and allow this important technology to advance the future of communications.

What we do for the city

WBA establishes the Connected City Advisory Board (CCAB) which develops, shares and promotes thought-leadership and practical framework for the Connected City ecosystem.

It’s a unique platform for City Managers and CIOs to knowledge-share challenges and opportunities in the development and execution of Smart Cities, establish best practice and determine a strategy to leverage public-private partnerships.

This invitation-only group encompasses representatives from major governmental and industry associations that are involved in Connected and Smart City development.

What we do for the “unconnected”

WBA is taking initiatives to develop a global neutral platform for all ecosystem stakeholders to promote more affordable and sustainable broadband Internet to connect the unconnected. The “Hope for Connectivity charter” has been launched in addition to promoting ‘World Wi-Fi Day’, enhancing collaboration amongst cities, government bodies, trade associations and industry players. Together, we can work together to provide affordable, sustainable broadband connectivity and improve the quality of life for people around the globe.

What We Do

Key Activities

The key activities of the WBA aim to address the ever-changing market requirements and opportunities through the following 5 programs and objectives:

Programs and Objectives

Next Generation Wi-Fi Program

Accelerate and expand the adoption of Next Generation Wi-Fi via our existing NGH & Carrier Wi-Fi developments. We focus on interoperability, compliance and roaming projects but also on advances in Wi-Fi Calling, LBS, the IoT and Big Data.

Connected City Program

Drive engagement with, and the development of, Public Wi-Fi with Connected and Smart Cities and regions through the creation of best practices, collaboration mechanisms for resource contribution, and public-private ecosystems.

Unlicensed Meets Licensed Program

Champion discussions on the convergence and co-existence of Licensed and Unlicensed Wireless technologies (5G), and lead the development of guidelines on Converged Services

Wireless Innovation Program

Drive innovation and diversification in Wi-Fi and unlicensed ecosystem through the WBA Accelerator program, creation of an Innovation Council & start-up mentoring

Public Advocacy Program

Advocate WBA’s members’ agendas globally and influence spectrum, security, privacy & regulatory policies while maximising engagement with wireless eco-system partners through the establishment of the WBA Vision Forum.

Download the 2016 Overview Infographic