Recent News & Press Coverage

Washington, D.C. – October 16, 2025 – The ASCII Group, the original and premier community of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America, is proud to announce Chad Kempt, Founder of Fast Computers, as the 2025 ASCII Member of the Year.

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This annual recognition honors a member who embodies the collaborative spirit of ASCII—sharing knowledge, building relationships, and contributing to the success of fellow MSPs.

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An ASCII member since 2010, Chad has been an active and trusted voice within the community. As part of the Advisory Committee, he helps shape initiatives that support members’ growth and success. He also leads ASCII’s monthly virtual meetings, fostering open dialogue and peer learning. Known for his thoughtful insights and willingness to share experiences, Chad continues to strengthen the ASCII network.

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This year, Chad also served on the Content Advisory Committee for the 2025 ASCII Edge event series, helping ensure conference sessions reflected the real-world priorities of today’s MSPs—from operations to cybersecurity and service delivery.

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Chad is the first Canadian member to receive this honor. A strong advocate at the ASCII Edge Toronto event, he also co-hosted the Toronto MSP Meetup this summer, helping build deeper connections and collaboration within the Canadian MSP community.

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“ASCII provides an environment conducive to growing business relationships in a trusted and respected way,” said Chad Kempt, Founder, Fast Computers. “I’m honored to be part of a community where everyone contributes to each other’s success.”

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“The Member of the Year award represents the best of what ASCII stands for—collaboration, leadership, and community,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “Chad has played a key role in shaping the member experience and elevating the conversations that move our industry forward.”

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The 2025 ASCII Member of the Year Award will be presented at the ASCII Cup celebration in Philadelphia on October 30, 2025, alongside recognition of this year’s top technology vendors.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc:

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The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

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Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – September 30, 2025– The ASCII Group, the original and premier community of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America, today announced the 2026 schedule for its ASCII Edge conference series. Since 1984, ASCII has remained the only vendor-neutral community dedicated to helping MSPs grow through peer collaboration, education, and industry engagement.

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ASCII Edge 2026 will bring together more than 1,500 MSPs, technology providers, and industry leaders in eight cities across the U.S. and Canada. Each two-day event delivers business-focused sessions, actionable strategies, and high-value networking opportunities designed to help MSPs compete effectively and build stronger businesses.

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ASCII Edge 2026 Dates and Locations

• Costa Mesa, CA – February 25 & 26
• Dallas, TX – March 25 & 26
• Newark, NJ – April 22 & 23
• Seattle, WA – May 27 & 28
• Washington, D.C. – July 22 & 23
• Toronto, ON – August 26 & 27
• Chicago, IL – September 23 & 24
• San Antonio, TX –October 21 & 22

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To ensure high-quality sessions, all vendor presentations are reviewed by the ASCII Edge Content Advisory Committee, comprised of experienced MSP members. This peer-review process reflects ASCII’s commitment to offering content that is practical, non-sales focused, and directly relevant to MSP business challenges.

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“ASCII Edge is built by MSPs, for MSPs,” said Jessie Devine, VP of Channel Development, The ASCII Group. “Our education-focused sessions give MSPs strategies they can act on, while vendors gain meaningful engagement with a community that values trusted partnerships.”

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In addition to peer-driven programming, ASCII Edge 2026 will feature collaborative networking, a solution pavilion with leading technology partners, and the annual ASCII Cup Awards, which recognize the top vendors serving the MSP community. The full lineup of speakers, including the keynote, will be announced later this fall.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact:

Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – July 17, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s original vendor-neutral community for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), has launched a redesigned corporate website and a new member portal, delivering a more connected and engaging experience for today’s MSPs.

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These updates reflect a broader initiative to elevate the ASCII experience—streamlining access to programs, enhancing peer collaboration, and building on the vision of ASCII’s late founder, Alan Weinberger, who championed the power of community in the IT channel.

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The new website features improved navigation, refreshed content, and a clearer representation of ASCII’s vendor-neutral position in the market. It also provides easier access to information on member benefits, industry events, and peer programs.

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“The new site is a true reflection of the community we serve,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “It reinforces our commitment to helping MSPs grow and stay competitive, while better showcasing the breadth and depth of what ASCII offers.”

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Earlier this year, ASCII also introduced its member benefit portal—a centralized platform for real-time community engagement. Built to support meaningful peer interaction, the portal enables members to submit subcontracting requests, exchange vendor recommendations, explore acquisition opportunities, and offer or receive support during service disruptions or emergencies.

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“The member portal brings to light what has always existed within our community—MSPs supporting each other in practical, business-focused ways,” added Koutavas. “By formalizing that collaboration, we’ve made it easier for members to connect, share, and solve challenges together.”

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Both the website and portal were developed with direct input from ASCII members and are part of the organization’s ongoing effort to remain the most accessible, trusted, and community-driven resource for MSPs in the channel.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors. Learn more at www.ascii.com.

Press Contact:

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Alysia Vetter
Chief Marketing Officer
Tel: 800-394-2724 x131
Email: alysia@ascii.com
Web: www.ascii.com

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Washington, D.C. – July 7, 2025 – The ASCII Group is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its Founder and Chairman, Alan D. Weinberger, who died on June 29, after a courageous battle with cancer.

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Alan was more than a leader—he was a visionary, a legal scholar, and a fierce advocate for the IT channel. In 1984, he founded The ASCII Group with 40 independent computer dealers and a bold idea: that the IT industry could thrive through community, collaboration, and shared purpose. Over the next four decades, he led ASCII to become the preeminent independent IT community in North America, serving thousands of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and solution providers.

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A sharp and inquisitive legal mind, Alan earned his J.D. from NYU, where he was a Law Review Editor and Order of the Coif honoree, followed by an LL.M. from Harvard Law School. He was a founding professor at Vermont Law School and brought thoughtful leadership and strategic vision to every stage of ASCII’s growth.

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Alan was widely respected as a thought leader in the IT industry. His editorials appeared in major publications including The Wall Street Journal, and he was named one of the Top 25 Most Influential Executives in the Computer Industry by CRN. His most recent book—The Doctor’s In: Treating America’s Greatest Cyber Security Threat—spotlights the essential role MSPs play in safeguarding organizations in today’s evolving cyber landscape. Written for the general public, the book reflects Alan’s lifelong mission to elevate IT professionals and the work they do.

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“Alan was deeply committed to community and to raising the visibility of the MSP to the world. He recognized their importance long before others did and dedicated his life to championing their value,” said Jerry Koutavas, CEO of The ASCII Group. “His vision created a powerful community that changed the lives of thousands of IT professionals. We will carry his legacy forward with the same passion and purpose that he instilled in all of us.”

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Alan’s unmistakable voice, sharp curiosity, and ability to form lasting connections left a profound impact on the IT channel. For more than four decades, he was a true champion of the industry—a trusted advocate, mentor, and driving force behind positive change in the IT world.

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For those who wish to share condolences or memories, a memorial page has been created by Alan’s family and can be found here: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/legacyremembers/alan-weinberger-obituary?id=58760497

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Media Contact:
Alysia Vetter
Chief Marketing Officer
Tel: 800-394-2724 x131
Email: alysia@ascii.com
Web: www.ascii.com

The ASCII Group Appoints Jerry Koutavas as CEO, Founder Alan Weinberger Named Non-Operating Chairman of the Board

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Washington, D.C. – June 18, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s original vendor-neutral community for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced the appointment of Jerry Koutavas as Chief Executive Officer. Alan Weinberger, founder and former CEO, will transition into the role of Non-operating Chairman of the Board, continuing his decades-long mission to advocate for the IT channel.

Weinberger founded The ASCII Group in 1984, pioneering the first collaborative organization of its kind for IT solution providers. At a time when MSPs had limited resources and little collective representation, Weinberger’s vision created a peer-driven, vendor-free community focused on growth, independence, and shared success. Under his leadership, ASCII became a respected force in the channel—uniting thousands of IT providers across North America.

“Building The ASCII Group from the ground up and watching it evolve into a true community has been one of the most meaningful journeys of my life,” said Weinberger. “This organization has always stood for trust, collaboration, and independence. Jerry has been a steward of that mission for many years, and I have full confidence in his leadership as ASCII moves into its next chapter.”

Koutavas, who has worked in the IT channel for nearly 30 years, played a key role in helping thousands of providers transition from break/fix to managed services. During his tenure, he helped establish one of the industry’s most effective vendor-free peer networks—facilitating over 500,000 member-to-member exchanges that have solved technical issues, improved service delivery, and guided critical business decisions.

“Alan built something truly special—a values-driven organization that puts people first and has stood the test of time,” said Koutavas. “I’m deeply grateful for his vision and leadership, and it’s an honor to carry that legacy forward as we continue to support this incredible community through its next phase of growth and opportunity.”

David Stinner, President of US itek and member of ASCII’s Advisory Committee, shared, “I’m excited to see Jerry take on the role of CEO and lead The ASCII Group into its next chapter. His leadership and deep understanding of the MSP community have been instrumental in bringing together valuable vendor relationships, industry experts, and meaningful programs that support members like myself. I look forward to seeing how ASCII continues to grow and evolve under his guidance.”

Rob Rae, CVP of Community and Ecosystems at Pax8, added, “Few organizations in our industry have stood the test of time like ASCII. Alan’s vision created a community that has empowered MSPs, and what continues to set ASCII apart is the leadership behind it. Jerry’s ability to anticipate where the industry is headed allows ASCII to adapt while fostering trust, collaboration, and long-term value for its members.”

This leadership transition reaffirms The ASCII Groups commitment to its founding principles while positioning the organization to meet the evolving needs of today’s IT and MSP landscape—through community, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence.

About The ASCII Group, Inc.

Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors. Learn more at www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact
Alysia Vetter
Chief Marketing Officer
Tel: 800-394-2724
Email: alysia@ascii.com
Web: www.ascii.com

The ASCII Group Expands Member Advisory Committee with Four New Appointments

The ASCII Group Announces the Passing of Founder and Chairman Alan Weinberger

Washington, D.C. – February 19, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s leading community for independent Managed Service Providers (MSPs), is pleased to announce the appointment of four distinguished MSP leaders to its Member Advisory Committee: Kathy Durfee of TechHouse; Michael Goldstein of LAN Infotech, LLC; Felicia King of Quality Plus Consulting; and Ken Wong of DragonTek International. These accomplished professionals bring a wealth of experience and insight to the committee, further strengthening ASCII’s commitment to supporting MSPs in an ever-evolving technology landscape.

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The Member Advisory Committee is comprised of select IT professionals from diverse technology sectors who collaborate with ASCII leadership to provide strategic input on membership initiatives, industry challenges, and emerging opportunities. By expanding the committee with these new members, ASCII is reinforcing its mission to equip MSPs with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the next phase of industry transformation.

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“Our Advisory Committee plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of ASCII’s programs and initiatives,” said Alan Weinberger, Chairman and CEO of The ASCII Group. “The addition of Kathy, Michael, Felicia, and Ken enhances our ability to provide meaningful guidance to our growing community as the industry continues to evolve.”

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Representing 12 member businesses across North America, the Member Advisory Committee meets regularly with ASCII leadership to discuss new alliances, peer networking opportunities, and innovative ways to bring value to the membership.

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In addition to the newly appointed members, the ASCII Member Advisory Committee includes Joe Balsarotti, Tom Fox, Sean Jennings, Chad Kempt, Stanley Louissaint, Stephen Monk, Kim Nielsen, and David Stinner. Established in 2001, the committee remains a vital part of ASCII’s dedication to fostering collaboration and driving innovation within the MSP community.

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For more information about The ASCII Group and its initiatives, visit www.ascii.com.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors.

Learn more at www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

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Alysia Vetter
Chief

Marketing Officer


Tel: 800-394-2724


Email: alysia@ascii.com


Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – January 9, 2025 – The ASCII Group, North America’s leading community for independent Managed Service Providers (MSPs), is thrilled to announce the keynote speakers for ASCII Edge 2025, its flagship conference series.

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Launching in California this February, ASCII Edge 2025 will bring together nearly 1,500 MSPs, technology providers, and industry experts for two days of immersive learning, networking, and collaboration. Spanning eight cities across North America, the series provides MSPs with the tools, insights, and connections needed to fuel growth and innovation. Events will take place in Costa Mesa, CA; Orlando, FL; Newark, NJ; Chicago, IL; Columbus, OH; Toronto, Canada; Dallas, TX; and Philadelphia, PA.

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This year, Microsoft is proud to join ASCII Edge as a Diamond Sponsor, bringing a wealth of knowledge and innovation to the event. Attendees can look forward to an inspiring keynote, AI and Zero Trust: Securing the Future Together, an insightful partner strategy session, and an in-depth business strategy workshop, Supercharge Your Business: A Microsoft Strategies Workshop. We are eager for ASCII members to connect with Microsoft and explore groundbreaking opportunities to boost profitability, leverage Microsoft’s comprehensive security suite, and seamlessly integrate AI with Microsoft Copilot.

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Featured Keynote Session

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“The Mindset of a Hacker – FBI’s and Interpol’s Most Wanted Shares All”

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Once a globally wanted hacker known as Hackah Jak, Jesse Tuttle will share his remarkable journey from breaching high-security systems to becoming a trusted intelligence partner for federal agencies. His keynote promises to deliver eye-opening insights and practical lessons for today’s IT professionals.
MSP Speaker Sessions

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“Questions That Close: Selling More by Asking the Right Questions”

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ASCII alum and successfully exited MSP Jeremy Nelson will reveal strategies for leveraging powerful questions to boost sales and build client relationships, equipping attendees with actionable techniques to drive revenue growth.

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“Thriving Under Pressure: Your Stress Management Stack”

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In the demanding world of IT services, this session highlights the critical role of mental health in overall wellness, breaking stigma, and redefining the mind-body connection. ASCII member Diana Giles of Skyline IT shares actionable strategies and a call for self-assessment as participants will gain tools to balance career success with personal well-being.

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“Outsmarting Private Equity: An MSP’s Playbook for Acquisition Success”

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Fellow ASCII members Mat Kordell & Dave Henderson of CyberStreams know how to find ‘diamonds in the rough’ private equity often overlooks. Discover how to strategically uncover and transform distressed or undervalued companies into thriving assets, leveraging insider insights and practical tools. Learn how to outmaneuver larger competitors and position your business for scalable growth through smart, strategic acquisitions.

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“We listen to the community and bring content and speakers that resonate with our MSP members. We want attendees to leave with actionable strategies to advance their businesses while feeling valued as part of a community of peers,” said Jerry Koutavas, President of The ASCII Group.

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For event details and registration, visit events.ascii.com.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc.

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Founded in 1984, The ASCII Group is the original IT community of the channel, uniting Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America. As a vendor-neutral organization, ASCII provides unbiased resources and a collaborative environment to support business growth. Members span the U.S. and Canada, ranging from SMB-focused MSPs to international solution providers. ASCII offers leveraged purchasing programs, education, marketing support, peer networking, and more, complemented by a vibrant ecosystem of technology vendors. Learn more at www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

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Alysia Vetter


Chief Marketing Officer


Tel: 800-394-2724


Email: alysia@ascii.com


Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – November 4, 2024 – The ASCII Group, the leading community of independent Managed Service Providers (MSPs) across North America, is excited to announce the return of ASCII Edge in 2025, with events in multiple cities. Following its milestone 40th anniversary in 2024, The ASCII Group remains committed to helping its members build scalable, thriving MSP businesses.

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MSPs need a community of IT leaders that provides resources, insights, and networking opportunities to support growth. To meet this need, ASCII Edge 2025 will bring together nearly 1,500 professionals, technology providers, and industry leaders for two days of interactive sessions, strategic networking, and collaborative learning. With stops in eight cities across North America, MSPs will have the chance to connect with peers and explore new pathways for business growth and success.

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The Edge conference series will focus on actionable strategies and education. To ensure top-tier content, a special committee of MSP leaders has been tasked with overseeing the event’s programming. Vendor presentations will be reviewed by a distinguished panel of ASCII members, including Diana Giles of Skyline IT Management, Chad Kempt of Fast Computers, and Henry Timm of Phantom Technology.

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“Once again this year, we’ve strengthened our approach by engaging three respected MSP leaders to evaluate vendor keynotes, ensuring that the sessions are educational, relevant, and valuable to our audience,” said Jessie Devine, VP of Channel Development at The ASCII Group.

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ASCII Edge 2025 Dates and Locations:
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• Costa Mesa, CA – February 26 & 27
• Orlando, FL – March 26 & 27
• Newark, NJ – April 23 & 24
• Chicago, IL – June 25 & 26
• Columbus, OH – July 23 & 24
• Toronto, Canada – August 27 & 28
• Dallas, TX – September 17 & 18
• Philadelphia, PA – October 29 & 30

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Beyond the core sessions, ASCII Edge 2025 will feature knowledge-sharing from industry leaders and top MSPs shaping the future of the managed services channel. The full lineup of speakers, including the keynote, will be announced this December.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc

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The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

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Alysia Vetter


Chief Marketing Officer


Tel: 800-394-2724


Email: alysia@ascii.com


Web: www.ascii.com

Washington, D.C. – October 30, 2024 – The ASCII Group, North America’s premier community of Managed Service Providers (MSPs), is pleased to announce a new collaboration with Ring. As an additional benefit to Amazon Business’ Associated Accounts Program, this initiative provides ASCII members in the U.S. and Canada with access to Ring’s comprehensive product lineup, offering new revenue opportunities and enhanced value-added services for their clients.

Through this initiative, ASCII members can integrate Ring’s wide range of security products and services into their offerings, addressing the increasing physical and virtual security needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Ring’s portfolio, which includes doorbell cameras, security cameras, alarm systems, and smart lighting, offers versatile solutions for various industries.“We’re thrilled to work with The ASCII Group,” said Kirk Friedman, Head of Sales for Ring Business. “Our program provides ASCII members with valuable resources, making Ring’s products an excellent addition to their portfolios. Whether serving Small and Medium Businesses or Residential clients, our comprehensive product line up meets diverse security needs.”“Our collaboration with Ring represents an exciting opportunity for our members to expand their service offerings while addressing the ever-evolving security needs of their clients,” said Alan Weinberger, CEO of The ASCII Group. “This initiative underscores our commitment to equipping MSPs with the tools they need to thrive.”Industries such as franchises, brick-and-mortar retail stores, and property management companies stand to benefit greatly from Ring’s robust security solutions, which offer flexibility and reliability to meet a wide range of customer needs.

For more information on becoming a member of The ASCII Group and exploring the benefits of this collaboration with Ring, please visit www.ascii.com.

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About The ASCII Group, Inc:

The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The Group has members located throughout the U.S. and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers with a national and international reach. Founded in 1984, ASCII provides services to members including leveraged purchasing programs, education and training, marketing assistance, extensive peer interaction and more. ASCII works with a vibrant ecosystem of leading and major technology vendors that complement the ASCII community and support the mission of helping MSPs to grow their businesses. For more information, please visit www.ascii.com.

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Press Contact

Alysia Vetter

Chief Marketing Officer

Tel: 800-394-2724

Email: alysia@ascii.com

Web:  www.ascii.com