With planning funds in hand, states turn to broadband consultants

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has made multiple announcements releasing funds to help states develop plans for the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. With dollars in hand or incoming, a ticking clock, and few internal resources, several states are now turning to consultants for help. States have 270 days from receipt of planning funds to submit a five-year action plan to NTIA on how they will structure their BEAD and digital equity programs to close their digital divides. As of this writing, NTIA has distributed planning funds to over 30 states. Several states have started issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) for consultants to design their BEAD and Digital Equity Act plans, and many more are expected to do so as funds continue rolling out. With millions per state on the table, and with broadband offices needing help with some or all aspects of BEAD, various consulting firms hope to seize the new opportunity and are trying to find their way in.  Various consulting firms hope to seize the new opportunity and are trying to find their way in.