Maine Connectivity Authority Launches New Program To Support Broadband Utility Districts

The Maine Connectivity Authority is launching a new program to provide targeted support to Broadband Utility Districts (BUDs) in Maine. Broadband Utility Districts are community-based organizations formed to build and operate broadband networks to increase access to high-speed internet. The utility district ownership model is a critical part of helping enable regional scale impact resulting in improved connectivity and digital equity in Maine. The districts often partner with service providers to operate the network, while the communities in the districts own the internet infrastructure. As BUD members come together to create a new publicly owned internet service provider, they face numerous challenges, including access to capital, legal guidance, technical design, and overall organizational capacity. In partnership with the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME), the Maine Municipal Bond Bank, and other partners, MCA is developing a collaborative strategy to engage critical stakeholders, deploy targeted technical assistance, and craft appropriate funding programs to help BUDs fulfill their potential.