Technology and innovation were served up alongside eggs and bagels at the trade show kickoff breakfast at Bates College on Thursday.

Keynote speaker Eugene Johnson, chief executive officer of FairPoint Communications, said his company is putting $100 million into upgrading its network infrastructure and expects to invest another $100 million once its deal to purchase Verizon’s land lines is finalized.

“We’re building a state-of-the-art infrastructure, and it will be expandable for years to come,” said Johnson, noting that the existing network is a mishmash of lines cobbled together over 100 years.

Having roots in small business, Johnson said he understands the need to extend broadband service to the rural areas of the state and points with pride to FairPoint’s 92 percent customer base with access to broadband versus Verizon’s 65 percent.

“It’s the backbone of our network,” he said.

He also dismissed allegations that FairPoint doesn’t have the financial backing to complete the $2.7 billion deal, noting that the $1.7 billion in expected debt will be offset by new revenues.

“Our financial flexibility will increase when the transaction is done,” he said.

The deal, which has drawn the ire of unions, has been in the spotlight since it was announced in January. Johnson took the opportunity Thursday to make several pledges to the chamber breakfast crowd.

“I’m saying publicly, there will be no job cuts of existing FairPoint or Verizon employees,” said Johnson, who added that the company hopes to add 600 jobs once the three-state deal is done. “There will be no wages and benefits cuts … we would be willing to renew the (existing) contract right now.”

He also promised all Verizon pensions will be fully funded and that FairPoint’s dedication to customer service and partnership in Maine’s economic development will not waver.

“We want to be here, and they obviously don’t,” Johnson said.

– Carol Coultas