KY Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) Grants

KY Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Kentucky Office of Broadband Development
Last Updated: August 02, 2025

Summary

The Kentucky Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) aims to enhance digital inclusion by providing equitable access to high-speed internet across the state. By focusing on underserved and unserved areas, the program fosters community engagement and partnerships to improve broadband infrastructure and affordability. With funding opportunities available for Internet Service Providers, local governments, and non-profits, BEAD supports initiatives that empower Kentuckians, promote digital literacy, and stimulate economic growth through improved connectivity.

Overview

NOTE: Kentucky's subgrantee selection process begins with a Pre-Application period. Successful prospective subgrantees will receive invitations to advance to the next phase of the selection process. About The Kentucky BEAD program, aligned with the national initiative led by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), was designed to strategically invest in broadband infrastructure and resources to bridge the digital divide in Kentucky. By leveraging partnerships with federal, state, and local stakeholders, the program identifies priority areas lacking adequate broadband access and implements targeted solutions to address these gaps. Through a combination of grant funding, technical assistance, and community engagement efforts, BEAD aims to connect underserved and unserved areas, promote digital inclusion, and support sustainable economic development statewide. Purpose The Kentucky Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program (BEAD) aims to address the digital divide by ensuring equitable access to high-speed internet services across all regions of Kentucky. By focusing on promoting broadband deployment, affordability, and adoption, BEAD seeks to empower communities, foster economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for all Kentuckians. Use of Funds Kentucky BEAD offers funding opportunities to support the expansion of broadband infrastructure and improve connectivity across the Commonwealth. Eligible activities include: Deploying broadband infrastructure in unserved and underserved areas, with a focus on last mile connectivity capable of supporting speeds of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 20 Mbps upload Depending on available funding, additional activities may be undertaken, including: Providing technical assistance and capacity-building support for local governments, community organizations, and broadband providers to facilitate deployment and adoption effortsConducting outreach and education initiatives to promote broadband adoption and enhance digital literacy skills among residents, businesses, and community institutionsPerforming data collection and mapping activities to identify broadband gaps, assess existing infrastructure, and inform decision-making processes related to broadband investment and policy development These eligible activities are designed to support comprehensive broadband expansion efforts across Kentucky, helping to ensure that all communities can have access to reliable high-speed internet services.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Eligible entities applying for Kentucky BEAD funding are: Internet Service Providers (ISPs)Local GovernmentsNon-ProfitsAll prospective subgrantees must demonstrate a commitment to expanding broadband access in underserved and unserved areas of Kentucky and adhere to all program guidelines and regulatory requirements.An entity may submit multiple project applications, however only one pre-application per entity should be submitted.All applicants and consortium members must be registered to do business in Kentucky.