Local governments, internet service providers and non-profit organizations can soon begin applying for grant funding to support broadband expansion across Kentucky.
The Kentucky Office of Broadband Development’s new Broadband Grants Management Portal is now open for user registration. Users may register to participate in upcoming funding opportunities through the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
The Portal will open for the pre-application/pre-qualification process for the KY BEAD Program beginning Aug. 14 through Friday, Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. Eastern. More information on requirements can be found in the Opportunities section of the portal.
Kentucky's share of the federal BEAD grant program is $1.1 billion.
The BEAD program aims to address the digital divide by ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet services across all regions of Kentucky. By focusing on promoting broadband deployment, affordability, and adoption, BEAD seeks to empower communities, foster economic growth and enhance quality of life.
Eligible activities for BEAD grants include:
- Deploying broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas, with a focus on last mile connectivity capable of supporting speeds of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 20 Mbps upload
- Providing technical assistance and capacity-building support for local governments, community organizations, and broadband providers to facilitate deployment and adoption efforts
- Conducting outreach and education initiatives to promote broadband adoption and enhance digital literacy skills among residents, businesses, and community institutions
- Performing data collection and mapping activities to identify broadband gaps, assess existing infrastructure, and inform decision-making processes related to broadband investment and policy development
These eligible activities are designed to support comprehensive broadband expansion efforts across Kentucky, helping to ensure that all communities can have access to reliable high-speed internet services.
