FBA Presents – Making the Most of BEAD Opportunities – Tips for Success for States and ISPs

States are planning to invest unprecedented federal funding to help build broadband infrastructure. The next big wave of federal funding has begun to flow from the NTIA in the form of the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. The BEAD program, a cornerstone of the “Internet for All” agenda, represents $42.45 billion of the overall spend and a significant opportunity for states to help their citizens by working with “subrecipients” who will plan, build and operate new, mostly fiber networks across America.

While the BEAD program is necessary and welcomed, it presents challenges for State Broadband Offices. The Notice of Funding Opportunity, or NOFO, has a clear set of requirements that states need to meet in order to use the BEAD grants.

Similarly, while representing a rich source of funding for network expansion, the program requirements can seem daunting to the ISPs, Cooperatives and Public-private partnerships that are expected to lead the growth.

In this panel webinar we’ll explore the BEAD NOFO and share tips on how to navigate the requirements while making the most of the funding opportunities.

In this webinar, the panelists will discuss:

• Leveraging map data to make informed decisions
• Navigating the state-led challenge process
• Collaboration between States and ISPs
• Tracking, reporting and sharing project progress

Who Should Attend:
State BBOs, ISPs and network builders interested in BEAD funding

Moderator:

• Brian Mefford, VP of Broadband Strategy, VETRO

Panelists:

• Chad Rupe, General Manager, Poderosa Communications
• Peggy Schaffer, Strategic Advisor, VETRO
• Jeff Sobotka, VP, Government, Vivacity Infrastructure Group