The Administration announced the allocation of $42 billion in funding from the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA) to states and territories for broadband projects. Now what?

On June 26, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced funding allocations by state and territory for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.

With $42 billion in funding from the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act (IIJA), the BEAD program will help ensure universal internet access for all Americans by funding states to extend broadband infrastructure to unserved and underserved areas with limited or no internet access.

Each state is guaranteed a baseline allocation of $100 million, and each territory is guaranteed $25 million for broadband deployment. From the IIJA funds remaining after the guaranteed allocation, additional funding is calculated based on the number of unserved and underserved locations to be connected in each state and territory divided by the nationwide total. The total allocation for each state and territory is determined by combining the guaranteed and calculated amounts. See the breakdown by individual states and territories here.

States have 180 days from June 26 to submit a BEAD Initial Plan to NTIA. The plan outlines the strategies, goals, and initiatives the state intends to implement to address broadband access and deployment within its jurisdiction.  During the 180 days allotted for states to submit their plans, they are required to post their plans for a 60-day public comment and review period. To access state plans as they are posted in real-time, click here.

Each state has a designated office or agency responsible for developing its BEAD Initial Plan, overseeing broadband initiatives, and managing the distribution of funding and resources. These offices are central in coordinating efforts, engaging stakeholders, and implementing all broadband programs within their jurisdictions. To obtain the most accurate, up-to-date information on state-specific programs and broadband offices, go to the Internet for All - State Program Map and choose your state.

The responsibility of building BEAD-funded broadband infrastructure and awarding projects lies with a combination of entities. Internet service providers play a significant role by leveraging their existing resources and receiving funding through the BEAD program. State and local governments collaborate with stakeholders to facilitate infrastructure deployment, while public-private partnerships combine resources and expertise. Rural electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, nonprofit organizations, and community networks also contribute to expanding broadband access.

The BEAD program's IIJA funding allocations mark a significant step towards achieving universal internet access in the United States. By guaranteeing baseline funding and calculating additional resources based on local needs, the program aims to bridge the digital divide.