[Idaho Department of Commerce](https://commerce.idaho.gov)

March 2027 (BEAD Regional Coordination and Planning Grant)

Up to $50,000 per planning grant; $500,000 total available (latest round).

Supports broadband planning and coordination efforts to expand high-speed internet access in Idaho's underserved and unserved communities.

This is a forecasted opportunity; all dates are projected and subject to change.

--- ## Description The Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program, administered by the Idaho Department of Commerce, aims to bridge the digital divide by funding planning, infrastructure development, and deployment of broadband services across Idaho. The program prioritizes underserved and unserved communities, enabling them to improve digital equity, economic growth, and quality of life through reliable, affordable high-speed internet. The BEAD Regional Coordination and Planning Grant specifically provides resources for local and tribal governments, as well as state agencies, to establish Broadband Action Teams and advance broadband planning initiatives. --- ## Due Dates - March 2027 (anticipated/projected): BEAD Regional Coordination and Planning Grant application deadline *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Up to $50,000 per award for planning grants - $500,000 total available in the latest round Funding supports the creation of Broadband Action Teams and related planning activities to bring affordable, reliable internet to Idaho communities. --- ## Eligibility - Eligible applicants include: - Local governments (cities, counties) - Tribal governments - State agencies Applicants must be focused on broadband planning and coordination within Idaho, with a particular emphasis on reaching underserved and unserved areas. --- ## Application Process - Review the [grant guidelines](https://linkup.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Regional-Coordination-and-Planning-Grant_Final.pdf) to understand requirements. - Prepare necessary documentation demonstrating need, project scope, and alignment with BEAD goals. - Submit applications via the Idaho Department of Commerce’s designated process (details provided in each cycle’s guidelines). - Past application materials and awarded project lists are available for reference: - [Round One Applications (2024)](https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/n8h5hu3278fw7ehgf8dqq/Round-One_BEAD-Regional-Coordination-Planning-Grant_2024_03_29.zip?rlkey=8xamsaelx47y3q31l77q38w06&dl=0) - [Awarded Projects](http://commerce.idaho.gov/content/uploads/2024/04/BEAD-Planning-Grant-Scores_FINAL.pdf) --- ## Additional Information - The Idaho Office of Broadband leads statewide coordination and stakeholder engagement. - The BEAD program is part of a broader federal initiative (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act) and is coordinated with the National Telecommunications Information Administration (NTIA). - For additional context, see the [State’s 5-Year Action Plan](https://commerce.idaho.gov/content/uploads/2023/07/Link-Up-Idaho-Five-Year-Action-Plan_3_Update-7.11.23.pdf). --- ## External Links - [Idaho BEAD Program Overview](https://linkup.idaho.gov/broadband-equity-access-and-deployment-bead-program/) - [Idaho Broadband Grant Programs](https://linkup.idaho.gov/idaho-broadband-grant-programs/) - [BEAD Regional Coordination and Planning Grant Guidelines](https://linkup.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Regional-Coordination-and-Planning-Grant_Final.pdf) - [Idaho Office of Broadband](https://linkup.idaho.gov/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |-----------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | Idaho Department of Commerce | [Contact Form](https://commerce.idaho.gov/contact-us/) | | General Email | info@commerce.idaho.gov | | Broadband Program Email | broadband@commerce.idaho.gov | | Phone | (208) 334-2470 |

Broadband Equity, Access And Deployment (BEAD) Program

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