Wisconsin Broadband Office & National Telecommunications and Information Administration Update

Gov. Evers, PSC Announce Broadband Proposal Approved to Unlock Over $1 Billion in Federal Investments to Expand High-Speed Internet 

Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC), today announced the latest major milestone in the state’s efforts to expand high-speed internet statewide under a federal program designed to expand access to high-speed internet across the country. On December 2, the federal government approved Wisconsin’s final proposal, which will unlock over $1 billion in federal investments secured under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Read the press release here.

To review information about what changed with the BEAD program in 2025, visit the page highlighting our recent webinar with the PSC entitled, BEAD 2025: What Changed, What’s Next, and What Communities Can Do. It includes a video of the webinar and a downloadable slide deck.

NTIA: Updated BEAD FAQ published September 3, 2025
The NTIA released version 16 of the BEAD FAQ on November 21, 2025. The latest update to the FAQ builds upon the previous versions by offering additional clarifying questions and answers and detailed guidance on administrative and operational matters.

ICYMI – Wisconsin Broadband Office Information About BEAD
For the most up-to-date BEAD information, be sure to subscribe to the docket 5-BD-2025 on the PSC’s Electronic Records Filing system (ERF).

Events

Join Us for Understanding AI: A Forum for Local Government

Join Extension and UW-Madison experts at one of four locations throughout the state to gain a clear understanding of how local and tribal governments can use AI. Through hands-on sessions and lectures tailored to address the unique needs of local government, participants will gain critical tools and strategies for using AI and AI-enabled systems. 

Wisconsin Dells – March 5, 2026 | 8 am-3:30 pm
Oshkosh – March 17, 2026 | 8:00 am-3:30 pm
Eau Claire – March 18, 2026 | 8:00 am-3:30 pm
Lac du Flambeau – March 26, 2026 | 8:00 am-3:30 pm

Registration opens soon. Find more information here: https://extension.wisc.edu/aiforums/

The Wisconsin Digital Navigator Network: Offering Shared Resources & Community

The Wisconsin Digital Navigator Network is a statewide community of practitioners who support digital opportunity across the state. Members meet monthly (now the 4th Tuesday at 2:00 PM) and share ready-to-use resources, like digital skills lessons, internet safety content, and program guides that can be adapted for local use. If you work with community members on devices, connectivity, or online skills, reach out to us to get connected with the network!

NetInclusion: February 3-5, 2026 | Chicago

Net Inclusion 2026, NDIA’s national digital opportunity conference, will be in Chicago February 3–5, bringing together practitioners, advocates, and policymakers to share strategies, tools, and funding ideas for closing the digital divide. If you are considering attending or want to learn more about the agenda, travel details, and registration options, visit the event page.