Deploying BEAD: Strategies from State Broadband Officers

As broadband deployment accelerates across the country, State Broadband Offices play a pivotal role in finalizing grant programs, coordinating with providers, and ensuring that every community has a path to digital opportunity. With BEAD and other federal investments on the line, getting it right means building strategies that are equitable, flexible, and locally informed.

Marcus Moffett (Vice President of Solutions Engineering for Cisco Americas) moderated a powerful conversation with Glen Howie (Arkansas Department of Commerce), Joseph Le (Kansas Department of Commerce), Bree Maki (Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development), and Angie Bailey (North Carolina Department of Information Technology). The panel explored how each state is preparing to deploy BEAD funding and other programs to close the digital equity gap, while navigating challenges around speed, training, community engagement, and evolving federal guidance.

Key themes included the importance of market-driven grant design, aligning infrastructure with adoption efforts, and ensuring funding flexibility to meet unique state needs. Panelists also emphasized the human side of broadband. That means investing in digital literacy, devices, and local partnerships that empower individuals and unlock long-term economic potential.

Watch the full panel to hear how state leaders are turning federal funds into lasting connectivity