Greetings from the Extension Broadband Team!
This Digital Inclusion Week (DIW), we’re celebrating Wisconsin’s dedication to “Community-Driven Digital Futures.” Read below for actionable steps to amplify your local digital adoption efforts. We also have essential updates on BEAD, new tools, and key regulatory information to keep your region moving forward.
To stay on top of the latest federal and state resources, we encourage you to sign 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.
Newsletter Contents
- National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) Digital Inclusion Week Social Media Templates
- Preliminary Wisconsin BEAD Awardees Map
- Digital Inclusion Week – October 6 – 10, 2025
Wisconsin Broadband Office & National Telecommunications and Information Administration Updates
- NTIA: Updated BEAD FAQ published September 3, 2025
- PSC: Follow 5-BD-2025 for the latest BEAD information
Events
Digital Inclusion Week is here!
From our collaborative work across Wisconsin and with national partners, we know that bridging the digital divide is a year-round effort powered by local dedication. This week, we pause to celebrate that effort! Digital Inclusion Week (DIW) is officially here, running from October 6-10, 2025. This is a critical national opportunity to showcase and amplify the community-driven digital equity work happening right in our state.
Digital Adoption in Wisconsin: Take Action This Week
This year’s theme, “Community-Driven Digital Futures,” is especially relevant here in Wisconsin. We know that the most impactful solutions for bridging the digital divide spring directly from within our communities. This week is the perfect time to celebrate how far we’ve come and look ahead. Here are three ways you can join the conversation and highlight Wisconsin’s commitment to digital adoption:
- Amplify the Message on Social Media: Join the national conversation! Post about your community’s commitment to digital adoption, share a success story, or spotlight a local partner. Use the hashtag #DIW2025.
- Identify who is doing digital inclusion work in your community: This week is a great time to ensure your referral paths are active.
- Consider joining the Wisconsin Digital Navigator Network. Do you teach digital skills or know someone who does? Get support and shared resources and learn from your peers. Join here.
Wisconsin Broadband Office & National Telecommunications and Information Administration Updates
NTIA: Updated BEAD FAQ published September 3, 2025
The NTIA released version 15 of the BEAD FAQ on September 3, 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).
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!
Incentivizing Broadband Projects: Board of Commissioners of Public Lands
What's Next in Wisconsin Broadband, August 2024
Spring 2024 Broadband Workshops: Agenda and Resources
