The distribution of the massive $42.5 billion Broadband Infrastructure Plan between US states and territories has just recently been announced. If you're wondering what this means for you and your business, we've got you covered.
In a nutshell, this plan is all about bridging the digital divide. The goal? To ensure everyone in the US, particularly in rural and underserved areas, gets access to reliable, high-speed internet.
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program has smartly designed the allocations based on a range of factors like how many homes don't have internet access, the current state of infrastructure, and the size of the rural population.
Texas is getting the biggest share with $3.3 billion, while California and Missouri are getting $1.8 billion and $1.7 billion, respectively. With so many rural communities still offline, these funds will make a big difference. And it's not just the states who are benefitting. US territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands are getting a piece of the pie too, with $334 million, $156 million, and $27 million respectively.
Now, here's the big question: How can you, as a vendor, take advantage of the broadband infrastructure plan?
This massive funding plan has a lot of potential opportunities for vendors like you, from hardware and technology like fiber optic cables and servers to partnerships with ISPs for broadband services.
If you are a project management or consulting firm, large-scale projects like these need experts to guide the way, plus training the workforce is also needed for these initiatives.
What's more, this investment in broadband is a green light for innovative delivery models. And let's not forget the critical role of cybersecurity.
If you want to make the most of this, start seeking out bid opportunities, get involved with the communities you want to serve, and align your services with the main objective of this plan – providing broadband access to every corner of the nation. It's vital to show that you're not just about fulfilling technical requirements, but also committed to the social goals of this enormous investment.
Periscope S2G can help you prepare for these opportunities. You can get matched bid notifications, access exclusive bids from local, state, and federal agencies, and even advertise your business profile to member agencies. Get started today and find your next government contract.