02 May 2025 |

Oregon Opens Applications for $689M Broadband Projects

The state of Oregon has officially opened the application window for broadband service providers (BSPs) and other eligible entities seeking funding through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This major broadband initiative, administered locally by the Oregon Broadband Office (OBO), marks a pivotal step in closing the digital divide across the state.

The federal government awarded Oregon $688.9 million in BEAD funding. The money will support high-speed internet projects in unserved and underserved areas. Unserved means speeds of 25/3 Mbps or less; underserved means between 25/3 and 100/20 Mbps. Projects must include a 25% local match.

The BEAD application window is now open and will close on May 22 at 5 p.m. PT.

Oregon’s BEAD program is administered by Business Oregon through its Oregon Broadband Office

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include a broad range of entities such as cooperatives, nonprofit organizations, public-private partnerships, private companies, utilities (both public and private), public utility districts, and local governments.

How Projects Will Be Scored

According to a funding alert from the National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative (NRTC), Oregon’s BEAD applications will be scored on a 100-point scale. Key evaluation criteria include:

  • Minimal BEAD Outlay (up to 40 points): Based on the amount of federal funding requested
  • Affordability (up to 20 points): Applicants offering 1 Gbps service at or below $84.94 per month will score higher
  • Fair Labor Practices (up to 15 points)
  • Speed of Deployment (up to 2 points)
  • Community Support (up to 10 points): Full points require support from at least 50% of local or Tribal governments in the grant area
  • Connection to Community Anchor Institutions (up to 13 points): Including libraries, schools, healthcare facilities, and other public service hubs

Eligible project costs may include construction, facility improvements, and acquisition of telecommunications infrastructure.

More Than Just BEAD

Oregon supports broadband access through several major initiatives. These include the BEAD program, the Capital Projects Fund, and the Digital Equity Act. Together, they promote digital inclusion and strengthen infrastructure across the state.

regon BEAD Challenge Map

Oregon’s BEAD Challenge Map

Oregon has developed a BEAD Challenge Process Map to help applicants and communities better understand eligibility and opportunity areas. This interactive map identifies locations classified as unserved or underserved, enabling stakeholders to verify data, challenge classifications, and ensure funding targets the communities most in need.

More News about BEAD and Public Broadband

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Tags: BEAD Funds, BEAD program, Broadband Equity Access & Deployment (BEAD) Program, broadband expansion, Internet for All, Rural Internet,

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