Rhode Island’s Broadband Expansion to Expand Service to 16,000 Locations
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Taking a significant step toward digital equity, Rhode Island Commerce has launched its $108.7 million Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, marking a transformative investment in high-speed internet access across the Ocean State.
Backed by funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), the program officially begins with the release of the state’s first Request for Proposals (RFP) to design and build broadband infrastructure in over 30 municipalities. This milestone follows the NTIA’s recent approval of Rhode Island’s BEAD Challenge Process, effectively paving the way for implementation-ready projects.
“The BEAD Program will ensure that every home and business — regardless of where they’re located — has access to reliable, high-speed internet. We’re eager to start these investments in Rhode Island, which strengthen our communities and support Rhode Island’s economic future.”
Liz Tanner, Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce
Who Can Apply?
Rhode Island invites a diverse range of applicants to take part in this initiative—including private companies, local governments, nonprofits, utilities, cooperatives, and public-private partnerships. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate both the technical expertise and financial capacity to carry out broadband projects that meet or exceed federal benchmarks: at least 100 Mbps download / 20 Mbps upload speeds with latency under 100 milliseconds.
To start, the program prioritizes unserved and underserved communities across the state. However, once those areas gain reliable service, Rhode Island will allocate any remaining BEAD funds to expand connectivity even further—reaching Community Anchor Institutions and supporting other eligible non-deployment activities, thereby maximizing the program’s long-term impact.
Building on Early Wins
This new initiative builds on the momentum of Rhode Island’s Capital Projects Fund (CPF) broadband investment program. That $25 million state investment unlocked $27 million in private matching funds, bringing total CPF broadband funding to $52 million. The CPF program is set to improve broadband service for over 16,000 locations across the Ocean State.
Important Dates to Know
- April 7, 2025 – A pre-bid webinar will be held, offering guidance for prospective applicants
- May 9, 2025 – Deadline for proposals
For full details, eligibility requirements, and access to the RFP, visit: commerceri.com/broadband
More Information about BEAD
- Recent stories about BEAD program progress in 2025. We are covering developing stories in each state.
- For up-to-date information on the $42 billion BEAD Program, check Brander Group’s BEAD funding progress dashboard
