 ITU's Connect to Recover initiative aims to reinforce and strengthen the digital infrastructure and digital ecosystems of beneficiary countries as they adjust in the wake of COVID-19 and ensure this resiliency remains even in times of hazards. With this in view, the ITU Connect to Recover initiative organised a research competition on the role of broadband to ensure digital inclusion during the COVID-19 pandemic. The selected 15 winning projects cover 17 countries in Africa, Asia Pacific, Americas and Arab states. The research shows that though the use of broadband and digital technologies were critical during the pandemic, there were barriers in accessing online education, financial services and healthcare services affecting students, small businesses, vulnerable groups and isolated rural communities. Nevertheless, there is a silver lining. By focusing on the lessons learnt from these 15 published research reports, we can overcome these barriers through accessibility, adoption, affordability of broadband services, resilient digital infrastructure, digital skills and revamping policies and regulations to meet post-pandemic needs. We will contribute to meaningful connectivity which in turn enables development and a better future can be built with broadband. For more information visit www.itu.int.com slash connect to recover.