BOSTON – The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) has reopened its request for applications through the federal Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program to bring connectivity to unserved and underserved locations across the state. The application request is in response to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)’s recent policy update to the BEAD Program.
The request for applications will provide an opportunity for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to submit proposals to build broadband infrastructure that will connect unserved or underserved homes, businesses and community anchor institutions (CAIs).
“Massachusetts is working with partners at the federal, state and local levels to build a stronger, digitally connected economy,” said Massachusetts Interim Economic Development Secretary Ashley Stolba. “We are connecting providers with people on the ground to expand access across our state. More service means a more educated, knowledgeable, and skilled workforce.”
“MBI has been diligent in our efforts to identify and tackle gaps in service, so we can provide everyone with affordable, reliable broadband access,” said MBI Director Michael Baldino. “We are encouraging providers to participate in this funding round to continue our efforts to close the digital divide in Massachusetts.”
The BEAD Program is a nationwide initiative to expand reliable high-speed internet access in every state. The program was established as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The federal government allocated $147 million to Massachusetts to help achieve 100 percent universal service.
The application deadline is July 25, 2025.
Interested providers can obtain more information, including the grant program requirements and applications, on MBI’s website.
Massachusetts Broadband Institute at MassTech
A division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) is working to extend high-speed internet access and availability across the state. To achieve this, MBI uses state and federal funding to launch infrastructure expansion programs that target areas of the state that lack high-speed internet access as well as digital equity programs that tackle barriers to internet adoption and increase availability, addressing critical issues around affordability, enhanced public Wi-Fi, the need for internet-enabled devices, and digital literacy training.
Learn more at broadband.masstech.org.
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