Greetings from the Extension Broadband Team!
As we move further into the year, we continue to be inspired by the commitment and collaboration shown across Wisconsin to strengthen our digital future. Communities statewide are advancing broadband infrastructure, preparing for the implementation of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, and they are also leaning into the next steps of digital adoption, skills development, and workforce readiness.
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
Update on NTIA Guidance on the Use of BEAD Funds Saved Through the Trump Administration’s Benefit of the Bargain Reforms
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has announced that its guidance on the use of BEAD “non‑deployment” funds will be delayed. While the agency had initially anticipated releasing this guidance last week, NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth noted that the decision to postpone follows an “extraordinary level of interest and feedback” gathered during recent listening sessions, including more than 1,700 participants and 188 written comments. NTIA is taking additional time to fully review this input and finalize an approach that ensures responsible and efficient use of the $21 billion in BEAD program savings.
Please continue to check the NTIA’s website on BEAD webpage, along with updates from Wisconsin Broadband Office and our Extension Broadband Team as we continue to share updates on this matter.
NTIA: Updated BEAD FAQ published February 3, 2026
The NTIA released version 19 of the BEAD FAQ in early March 13, 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
Register Now 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.
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:
- 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.
- Discuss the intersection of connectivity and quality of care, identifying how expanded broadband can transform health services and patient experiences.
Five Regional Workshops Available:
Green Bay – April 22
Rhinelander – April 23
Iowa County – May 6
Rice Lake – May 19
Milwaukee – June 2
Lunch and Learn Webinar, Mapping Matters: Expanding your Digital Footprint
Join us April 7 12:00 – 1:00 pm for a lunch‑and-learn webinar focused on how digital mapping and online visibility shape economic opportunity—especially in rural places.
Visit the webinar’s page for more information and to register.
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.
Oshkosh – March 17, 2026 | 8:00 am-3:30 pm – POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER
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/
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 |
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!
