North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) recently announced that a key federal agency has approved the state’s final Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) plan—an essential milestone that allows the state to move forward with awarding grants under streamlined, lower-cost rules.
Leveraging Strategic Partnerships to Bridge Connectivity Gaps
The approval from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is especially significant for a state already recognized for its strong broadband infrastructure. Decades of strategic investment in high-quality fiber have positioned North Dakota to become the first state in the U.S. where every home and business can access high-speed fiber.
We at NDIT have been proud to partner with broadband providers across the state, who have made significant financial commitments to achieve universal high-speed broadband,
said Brian Newby, Broadband Program Director. Through the Capital Projects Fund, we've been able to award grants for nearly 3,000 locations, and we’re happy to say that our final 279 awards will go to North Dakota companies—enabling us to hit 100% coverage by 2028 or sooner.
The approval also helps NDIT and its partners move remaining projects forward more efficiently and cost-effectively.
In addition to strong collaboration and proactive investment with local partners, North Dakota’s robust broadband network is possible thanks to thoughtful planning,
said Craig Felchle, Chief Technology Officer at NDIT. This federal approval lets us apply BEAD funding under clearer, more flexible rules that are crucial to lowering costs and speeding up deployment, all while maintaining the high standards that will allow North Dakota to achieve universal connectivity.
Accelerating Toward Universal High-Speed Fiber Access
NTIA data shows that over 95% of North Dakota households have access to download speeds of at least 100 Mbps, with more than 70% able to reach gigabit speeds. Building on this strong connectivity, NDIT refined its BEAD plan earlier this year through a strategic rebidding process, enabling the state to lower deployment costs and prioritize rural areas in the process.
While we’re incredibly proud that North Dakota is widely recognized as one of the best-connected states in the country, our main focus has always been on our citizens,
said Corey Mock, Chief Information Officer for the State of North Dakota. This approval represents a major leap forward in achieving universal connectivity. With BEAD funds now unlocked, we can close the remaining gaps, strengthen our communities, support economic growth, and ensure every North Dakotan can fully participate in the digital world.