What’s Next in Wisconsin Broadband, February 2026

Greetings from the Extension Broadband Team!

As we begin the new year, we are extremely excited to see the commitment and dedication Wisconsinites are demonstrating to move our state forward through technology. We continue to see commitment and excitement around expanding broadband infrastructure but also increased efforts on the next steps of digital adoption and workforce development.

New broadband opportunities and challenges continue to present themselves. Keep up with the latest news by signing up for the Wisconsin Broadband Office newsletter and the Extension Community Economic Development newsletter.

Please share this resource with your county or community’s broadband stakeholders.

Wisconsin Broadband Office & National Telecommunications and Information Administration Update

NTIA Listening Session on the Use of BEAD Funds Saved Through the Trump Administration’s Benefit of the Bargain Reforms

Now is the time to share your opinions on how funds saved through BEAD’s “Benefit of the Bargain” should be utilized. NTIA will be holding a Listening Session on the Use of BEAD Funds Saved Through the Trump Administration’s Benefit of the Bargain Reforms on February 11, 1-3pm CT.

Read the federal register notice: Federal Register : NTIA Listening Session on the Use of BEAD Funds Saved Through the Trump Administration’s Benefit of the Bargain Reforms

To register for the listening session: NTIA Webinar Registration – Zoom

Please pass this information on as timing is short.

NTIA: Updated BEAD FAQ published February 3, 2026
The NTIA released version 18 of the BEAD FAQ on February 3, 2026. The latest update to the FAQ builds upon the previous versions with revised content related to the 2025 BEAD Restructure Policy Notice, updated timelines, and implementation details.

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

Find more information visit here: https://extension.wisc.edu/aiforums/

Save the Date for Spring Workshops: Healthcare in the Digital Age: Leveraging Broadband for Better Health and Stronger Communities

Explore the critical connection between broadband access and improved health outcomes—and how these advancements drive local economic growth. As broadband availability grows, the question becomes: How can we maximize its impact on health outcomes and quality of life? This workshop will provide a forum for actionable strategies that strengthen communities and foster economic resilience.

Discuss the intersection of connectivity and quality of care, identifying how expanded broadband can transform health services and patient experiences.
Identify opportunities and gaps in connected care, shaping regional priorities for innovation and investment.
Collaborate on practical solutions to address healthcare service gaps and ensure equitable access to care.

These free regional workshops will explore the critical connections between broadband access and improved health outcomes—and how these advancements drive local economic growth. By bringing together community leaders, healthcare providers, and technology stakeholders, we aim to:

Five Regional Workshops Available:

Green Bay – April 22
Rhinelander – April 23
Iowa County – May 6
West Central Wisconsin – TBA (May)
Waukesha County – TBA (June)

Registration will open in early March, and participants are encouraged to select the location that works best for them.

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!

Funding Opportunities

Funding Opportunity	Deadline
Board of Commissioners of Public Lands Loan Program – For public purpose projects including economic development, local infrastructure, capital equipment & vehicles, building repairs/improvements, and refinancing existing liabilities.	Rolling
Lifeline program for providers – eligible telecommunications providers will be reimbursed for discounts provided to consumers through this program.	None
Lifeline program for consumers – provides low-income WI residents discounts for the cost of phone, cell, and internet services.	None
PSC Telemedicine Grant – enables “Non-profit medical clinics” or “Public health agencies” to apply for funding to purchase medical telecommunications equipment.	3/4/2026 1:30 PM CT
PSC Lifeline Outreach Grant Program – funding is available under two tracks: Outreach and Education and Research and Resources. non-profits, community-based agencies, political subdivisions including tribal governments and for profit businesses, universities and other institutions of higher learning.	3/11/2026 1:30 PM CT

Broadband Toolkit

We are always updating our toolkit with new or expanded resources. Save this link and come back often!

go.wisc.edu/broadband toolkit

Have a question? Reach out to Extension’s Broadband Team!