22 Jul 2025

New Book: Bridging the Digital Divide

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This open access volume examines how local leaders across the U.S.—especially in rural, low-income, and Indigenous communities—are working to close the digital divide. It highlights innovative state and local approaches to broadband access and explores the policy tools, funding mechanisms, and community strategies that make a difference.

🔗 Download the book here

📖 Also available through Taylor & Francis under a Creative Commons (CC-BY-NC 4.0) license.

Download, read, and share!  https://www.routledge.com/Bridging-the-Digital-Divide-in-the-US-Planning-Innovative-State-and-Local-Approaches/Warner-Bravo-Shen/p/book/9781041024262

17 Jul 2025

BEAD Restructuring Round 1 Closes Soon

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As a reminder, applications for Restructuring Round 1 of Missouri’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program are due by 5 p.m. CST on Thursday, July 24.

Application Resources

The Office of Broadband Development (OBD) has published several resources to help prepare Round 1 applications:

All BEAD applicants are encouraged to review these documents before submitting. Applicants should also carefully review OBD’s published requirements for all components of this streamlined application. Failure to use the prescribed format may preclude OBD consideration of submitted applications.

New NTIA Guidance

Please note that new guidance from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) was issued on July 15 as a new version of their BEAD Frequently Asked Questions document.

The new guidance includes:

  • An indication that NTIA will give state broadband offices “significant leeway” and “reasonable deference” in making priority broadband project determinations (3.23)
  • A definition of the term “project cost” for the purpose of comparing submitted BEAD applications as the per-location Federal cost of a submitted project
    • This is calculated by subtracting the proposed match from the total project cost and then dividing that figure by the proposed number of BEAD-eligible locations to be served
    • This means that applicants that remove BEAD-eligible locations under OBD’s guidance will result in a higher project cost for the purpose of project selection (3.28)

NTIA has further required OBD to remove the following language from OBD’s Notice of Policy changes:

Applicants may submit multiple applications proposing the use of different technologies to serve the same application areas. In cases where two of an applicant’s applications are in competition for the same application area such that, had the winning application not been submitted, the applicant’s other application would have been awarded, the applicant may choose to withdraw its winning application in favor of the runner-up application.

The document has been updated accordingly. The text appeared on pages 14 and 16.

We appreciate your hard work to prepare proposals for the BEAD program on this abbreviated timeline.

July Stakeholder Update

Join OBD on Friday, July 25, at 1 p.m. as we share and discuss our continued work of Connecting All Missourians!

This month, we’ll provide updates on ongoing programs, including the BEAD program, and highlight new Non-BSL Functionality on the Broadband Map.

Registration is now open here. For those unable to join us live, this webinar will be recorded and made available on our Broadband Resources webpage.

7 Jul 2025

BEAD Notice of Program Changes Now Available

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On Thursday, July 3, 2025, DED’s Office of Broadband Development (OBD) published a Notice of Program Changes for the federally mandated Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program Scoring Application Round.

This notice modifies the BEAD Program and implements requirements outlined in the BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice that was released by NTIA on June 6, 2025.

The BEAD Restructuring Policy notice can be accessed here. The Notice of Program Changes for the mandated round can be accessed here and on the OBD website under BEAD Documents.

Notice of Program Changes due to Federal Restructuring Policy Notice_0-1Download

Please contact broadband@ded.mo.gov for more information.

13 May 2025

Missouri’s BEAD Program 2025

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Just a Speed Bump or Is the Broadband Bus Running on Empty?

In June 2023, the National Telecommunications and Information Agency (NTIA) announced that Missouri had been allocated over $1.7 billion through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, to expand high-speed internet access to more than 200,000 unserved and underserved locations across the state. This was the third highest amount of set aside for any state, with only California and Texas receiving larger allocations. The  BEAD funding was part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) enacted back in 2021, and the amount represented a historic opportunity to close Missouri’s digital divide and stimulate economic growth especially in rural unserved and underserved communities.

However “allocating” money isn’t the same thing as distributing it … either to the state or to the ISPs that will ultimately construct and operate new internet networks that ultimately will construct and operate new internet networks. Actually getting the money to where it could be used for an internet construction project has been painfully slow. At this point no money BEAD has been committed to a broadband project in Missouri, and it is looking less likely that any will be at this year.

This Blog describes why that’s happened, and suggests some steps communities might consider as we wait for the money.

BEAD Funding …. It’s a Process.

Even though BEAD was enacted in 2021 the “roll out” almost immediately encountered a substantial delay. It took a year and a half for the FCC to put together a set a map that NTIA could use to apportion the $44.24 billion Congress made available among the states. Much of that delay occurred because the FCC refused to begin working on the maps until Congress appropriate money specifically to fund the cost of preparing maps. Once the mapping process was completed, NTIA then required states to complete a multistage process that was roughly based on requirements outlined in the BEAD statute.

NTIA’s process required states to first determine locations eligible for funding and to create a procedure for selecting which ISPs would receive BEAD money. States were required to submit this procedure to NTIA for approval (Preliminary Plan Approval). Once Preliminary Plan Approval occurred, each state had one year to actually identify project locations eligible for funding and to conduct the  competitive process to select ISPs to build the broadband infrastructure using BEAD funds. The result of this work also had to be submitted to NTIA as the state’s Final Plan, and NTIA then would have an undetermined length of time to “approve it” (Final Plan Approval). Only after Final Plan Approval would ISPs selected in the state’s competitive grant process actually be assured they actually would receive the BEAD money, once the project was completed in accordance with the grant requirements.

Missouri Receives Preliminary Approval from NTIA and the Project Selection Process Begins

It took NTIA over a year (August 2, 2024) to give Missouri “Preliminary Plan Approval.” Thereafter, Missouri’s Office of Broadband Development (OBD) made significant progress moving toward a completion of a Final Plan for NTIA’s Final Plan Approval. Last year OBD conducted a rigorous challenge process to ensure that the locations designated as eligible for BEAD funding were accurate. It prequalified ISPs to streamline the process of reviewing ISP proposals to provide service in those areas, and it completed a first round of  BEAD funding applications, receiving 519 applications covering 192,284 locations-about 90% of the sites eligible for BEAD money.

A Short Pause…Or a Substantial Multi-Year Delay?

The acronym BEAD stands for Broadband Equity Access and Deployment, and for that reason alone, it’s not surprising that the incoming Trump administration would want some changes. NTIA is part of the Commerce Department, and  Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has consistently criticized the BEAD program for what he describes as “woke mandates,” including labor and climate-related requirements, and a “favoritism towards fiber-optic technology” that he believed needlessly inflated project costs and delayed infrastructure deployment.

During his January 2025 Senate confirmation hearing, Secretary Lutnick declined to commit to honoring NTIA’s existing Preliminary Plan Approvals, stating he would review plans for efficiency and alignment with “lowest cost” objectives. In March 2025, he announced a 90-day review focused on  Biden-era rules, prioritizing a tech-neutral approach (including satellite and fixed wireless) and streamlining infrastructure construction. The goal of this approach he argued was to accelerate deployment and reduce taxpayer costs. That has since been followed by an across the board 90 day extension in the date States must submit their Final Plan for NTIA approval.

Meanwhile, in March, congressional Republicans introduced the SPEED for BEAD Act to codify some of Secretary Lutnick’s priorities. Key provisions of this bill include:

               •Mandating technology neutrality, removing fiber-first preferences.

               •Eliminating labor (e.g., prevailing wage) and climate resilience requirements for broadband infrastructure.

               •Restricting BEAD funds to for infrastructure deployment only, blocking states from allocating funds for digital equity or workforce programs.

               •Requiring states to prioritize cost-effectiveness in subgrantee selection.

The legislation aligns with broader GOP efforts to redirect BEAD toward “shovel-ready” projects. Undoubtedly, it also puts fixed wireless providers and satellite providers in a much more competitive position as well, as they generally are less costly, at least in the short run, when compared to fiber to the premises broadband.

Of course, there are solid arguments supporting all of these proposals, and admittedly, the speed of implementing BEAD up to this point has been discouraging. However, the prospect of forcing states to throw out the work they’ve already done, and restart the planning and approval process under a new set of guidelines, is pretty disheartening, not only for the ISPs that proposed under Missouri’s approved Preliminary Plan, but to the communities hoping to finally get internet service as well. A recent opinion piece by Missouri Representative Louis Riggs, did a good job of expressing these concerns, and frustration with the delay and the change in approach.

Missouri stakeholders—including ISPs, local governments, and bipartisan state legislators-have expressed concern about mandatory federal changes forcing states to restart or revise their BEAD plans. A letter signed by 115 state legislators from 28 states urged Secretary Lutnick to make any changes to BEAD optional rather than mandatory to avoid undermining state authority and delaying broadband deployment, but even if changes are made optional at the state level, it seems likely that Missouri officials will want to carefully consider whether to go forward with the existing grant applications, or adopt the new standards.

While nothing can be said with certainty, it seems likely that even under comparatively optimistic timeframes, Missouri now will not be able submit a Final Plan for NTIA approval until late this year, and of course NTIA approval might take many months more. If the Trump administration chooses to focus efforts on passing the “Speed for BEAD Act” it seems likely that much of what OBD did this past year will need to be redone to allow new applications and proposals for funding that allow more wireless projects, and eliminate environmental and prevailing wage requirements.

Funding Under USDA Programs Seems Uncertain.

Although funding promised to Missouri under BEAD has dwarfed other federal programs, over the past several years the Department of Agriculture (USDA) has provided funding assistance through grants and loans for many rural communities as well. Two programs in particular administered by USDA are the Reconnect and the smaller, Telecommunications Loan Program. Unfortunately things don’t look promising here either. The Trump Administration’s Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has directed that funding under both of these eliminated, because they are duplicative.

Other Broadband Funding Options for Missouri Communities

Given the uncertainty around BEAD’s timeline and rules and the probable elimination of other federal programs, Missouri communities and ISPs may want to again explore other funding avenues to continue broadband expansion efforts. Missouri law authorizes several mechanisms to finance broadband infrastructure, including issuing tax-exempt bonds for Qualified Broadband Projects, Community Improvement Districts (CIDs), Neighborhood Improvement Districts (NIDs), Tax Increment Financing (TIF), and property and sales tax exemptions for broadband projects. These are outlined in a White Paper previously published on MoBroadband. You can find the White Paper [Here].

What’s next?

Well, the short answer is we don’t know. However, it is clear that many Missourians continue to lack a connection to reliable, affordable high speed internet, and the fact that Missouri received the third highest allocation of BEAD funding (even though the state ranks 19th in population), is compelling evidence that Missouri has a much larger connectivity problem than most other states. As long as this continues, it seems likely Missouri risks underperforming our peer states in the use of internet based applications that foster economic development, telehealth, and educational opportunity.

27 Nov 2024

Beyond the Smartphone:

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Why Accessing Online Applications and Information requires more than a phone!

Our smartphones have become our gateway to a vast world of online applications and information from any location, at any time. Whether it’s social media, news updates, or business tools, these devices have transformed the way we interact with the world. However, relying solely on a smartphone for accessing online applications and information comes with inherent limitations. Let’s discuss why you need more than a phone to access the services and information available on the internet today.

Smartphones come in various screen sizes, ranging from compact to large displays. While they offer portability, reading lengthy documents, editing spreadsheets, or designing presentations may be cumbersome on smaller screens. Larger screens, like tablets or desktop monitors provide better readability, space for multitasking, and ergonomic advantages for prolonged use.

Typing extensively on a smartphone’s touchscreen keyboard can be slower and less accurate compared to physical keyboards or styluses available with tablets or laptops. Devices with dedicated keyboards facilitate faster typing, enhancing productivity for tasks like drafting emails, writing reports, or coding.

Web applications can vary in their design and functionality. While mobile apps are built specifically for the smartphone format, web apps need to be responsive and adaptable to different screen sizes and systems. Responsive Design means that web apps are not confined to a single device type and can be accessed through various devices, including tablets, laptops, and desktops, providing users with a seamless experience regardless of the device used. Even if a web application has a responsive design, some functions do not work as well and some not at all on a smartphone.

Certain tasks are accomplished more efficiently on devices other than smartphones. Typing long documents, creating complex spreadsheets, or designing intricate presentations are more comfortably and effectively done on a device with a full-sized keyboard and larger display area. The nature of some applications can demand more robust computing power or a larger screen size than what smartphones offer.

Accessing online applications and information often necessitates reliable and high-speed internet connectivity. While smartphones offer mobile data and Wi-Fi capabilities, network coverage can be inconsistent in certain areas. Devices like laptops or tablets can connect to wired networks or offer stronger Wi-Fi antennas for more stable internet access, crucial for uninterrupted work or streaming.

Multitasking capabilities are essential for professionals juggling multiple applications simultaneously. Smartphones, while capable of multitasking to a certain extent, may not provide the same efficiency as larger devices with split-screen capabilities or multiple windows. Moreover, prolonged use of smartphones may strain eyesight and posture compared to larger screens with adjustable setups.

Security concerns are paramount when accessing sensitive information or using online applications for financial transactions. Devices like laptops or desktops offer more robust security features such as encryption, firewalls, and secure boot options. They also provide better control over data privacy settings and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Tablets, laptops, or Chromebooks do not have to be expensive to provide the size and functionality you need to fully access services and information on the Internet. Take a look at some of these articles that discuss low-cost options for tablets and laptops:

The best cheap tablets of 2024: Expert tested and reviewed | ZDNET –

https://www.zdnet.com/article/best-cheap-tablet/

The best cheap tablets in 2024 – our top picks | Tom’s Guide (tomsguide.com) –

https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-cheap-tablets

The Best Cheap Tablets for 2024 | PCMag –

https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-cheap-tablets

If you are having trouble affording a tablet, Chromebook, or laptop, PCs for People (https://www.pcsforpeople.org/) may be able to help.  You can also check with local organizations such as the community action agencies that provide community support to see if they provide help in acquiring a tablet or laptop. Local libraries may have computers available to use for services that might be better accessed on a larger screen and with the functionality of a browser on a tablet or computer.

To fully utilize the power and functionality of the applications available online, more than a phone is needed. The cost of the additional tools does not have to break the bank for you to be able to take advantage of all the Internet has to offer.

13 Nov 2024

Dispelling Common VPN Myths

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Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become essential tools for enhancing online privacy and security. However, with their increasing popularity, several misconceptions have arisen about what VPNs can and cannot do. Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for users to make informed decisions about using VPNs effectively.

Here are some of the most common myths debunked:

Myth 1: VPNs Provide Complete Anonymity – One of the biggest misconceptions is that VPNs offer complete anonymity online. While VPNs do an excellent job of hiding your IP address and encrypting your data, they are not foolproof. Other methods of tracking, such as browser fingerprinting or cookies, can still identify users. VPNs are one part of a larger privacy toolkit and should be used in conjunction with other privacy measures for better anonymity.

Myth 2: All VPNs Are the Same – Not all VPNs are created equal. There are significant differences in the levels of security, privacy policies, and features offered by various providers. Some may keep logs, offer different encryption standards, or have more robust server networks than others. It’s important to research and compare VPN providers before choosing one.

Myth 3: VPNs Can Make Your Internet Faster – Another common myth is that VPNs can increase internet speed. In reality, the encryption process and rerouting of traffic through VPN servers can sometimes slow down your connection. The impact on speed can vary based on the quality of the VPN service and the distance to the server.

Myth 4: VPNs Are Only for Tech-Savvy Users – VPNs are often thought to be complex and only suitable for advanced users. However, many VPN providers have made significant efforts to create user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for anyone to use their services, regardless of technical expertise.

Myth 5: Free VPNs Are Just as Good as Paid Ones – While free VPNs can be appealing, they often come with limitations such as data caps, slower speeds, and fewer servers. Moreover, some free VPNs may compromise your privacy by tracking your activities or displaying ads. Paid VPNs offer better security and features.

Myth 6: VPNs Are Only for Questionable Activities – There’s a misconception that VPNs are only used for hiding illegal activities. This is far from the truth. Many people use VPNs for legitimate reasons, such as protecting their privacy, securing their data on public Wi-Fi, for work, or accessing content restricted in their region.

Myth 7: VPNs Protect Against All Online Threats – VPNs are excellent for securing your data in transit, but they do not protect against all types of online threats. For instance, they cannot prevent phishing attacks or malware. It’s essential to use VPNs alongside other security measures like antivirus software and safe browsing practices.

Myth 8: VPNs Are Illegal – The legality of VPNs varies by country. In most places, using a VPN is perfectly legal, especially for protecting personal privacy and security. However, some countries have restrictions on VPN use, so it’s important to be aware of the laws in your location.

By understanding these common misconceptions, users can set realistic expectations and use VPNs more effectively as part of their online security strategy. Remember, a VPN is a valuable tool, but not a silver bullet for online privacy and security. It’s one component of a comprehensive approach to safeguarding your digital life.

12 common VPN myths busted – https://nordvpn.com/blog/myths-about-vpn/

Common VPN Myths Debunked – https://www.bitdefender.com/blog/hotforsecurity/common-vpn-myths-debunked/

17 Oct 2024

Round 1 of the BEAD Program to Open November 15

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DED’s Office of Broadband Development (OBD) has announced that the first application round for the Missouri Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program is scheduled to open on November 15, 2024.

Round 1 applications will close at 5 p.m. on January 31, 2025. In response to feedback from potential BEAD applicants, OBD requested and received a variance from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to allow a longer window for Round 1 applications than proposed in Missouri’s approved Initial Proposal Volume II.

Round 1 BEAD pre-qualification applications are currently open and will close at 5 p.m. on January 16, 2025. Pre-qualification applications will be available for submission during each scoring round and sub-round until 15 days before the round or sub-round closes.

NTIA must approve OBD’s final list of BEAD-eligible locations before OBD can release a final Application Area Map and open Round 1 of the BEAD program. If approval is not received by November 15, the opening of the round will be delayed.

Notifications of further guidance about Round 1 of the BEAD application process and the publication of Missouri’s BEAD Application Area Map will be posted on OBD’s Connecting All Missourians webpage and sent via email to broadband stakeholders. LEARN MORE…

17 Sep 2024

National Broadband Navigator

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The Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development is hosting a webinar on September 24th at 1pm ET to introduce the National Broadband Navigator, an innovative, public spatial-analysis tool designed to help community leaders plan broadband projects in areas currently underserved by high-speed internet. Learn more and register here, and please feel free to share with your networks.

More about the National Broadband Navigator:

The webinar will be presented by members of the Penn State Extension team that developed the tool with funding from the Rockefeller Foundation. The BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) Broadband Navigator can be used to quickly conceptualize potential broadband projects, focus areas, and deployment cost estimation. The model allows users to rapidly identify areas with broadband deficiencies in parallel with demographic factors like age, poverty, healthcare access, minority status, nearby fiber optic cable, farm data, and even legislative districts. The tools are designed to enhance data-driven local broadband deployment conversations anywhere in the U.S. at no cost and includes the ability to download critical data for your local project.

 

https://nercrd.psu.edu/nercrd-webinar-to-focus-on-the-national-broadband-navigator-instrument/

17 Sep 2024

MO DED: Request for Public Input on BEAD Reimbursement Process

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DED is requesting public feedback on options for the reimbursement process for the upcoming Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. The BEAD program will invest $1.7 billion to address infrastructure barriers for unserved and underserved locations throughout Missouri.

The public input survey, linked below, covers multiple aspects of the reimbursement process that will be used throughout the BEAD program’s lifetime. You may provide input through the survey until 11:45 p.m. on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

Take the survey: https://moexperience.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_26t09YDfmGUaqcC

If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please contact us at broadband@ded.mo.gov or 573-526-1028.

30 Apr 2024

BEAD — Let’s Not Throw Away Our Shot Part 3 – Adoption

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By: Marc McCarty and Meredith Morrison

When COVID-19 was classified as a pandemic in March 2020, much of our normal in-person activity ceased, and was replaced by a new, “online normal.” Even though millions lacked a broadband connection, without question our ability to remain connected played a critical role in maintaining our workforce, healthcare, and educational institutions in the immediate crisis. For example,

  • By May of 2020, 35% of employees worked remotely full-time through online connection.
  • Within the pandemic’s first three months, telemedicine encounters increased by 766%.
  • In 2020, 77% of public schools moved their classes to a  distance-learning format, and 84% of college students reported either some or all of their classes shifted to online-only instruction.

Since the pandemic’s onset, many things have returned to pre-pandemic normalcy, but the increased reliance on broadband remains a permanent feature of our lives.

  • Approximately 13% of employees work remotely (online) full-time, and 28% maintain a hybrid work schedule.
  • Today digital medical consultations are chosen 38 times more often than before the pandemic. In 2023, 37% of mental health visits took place virtually, followed by infectious disease, obstetrics, and transplant consultations.
  • While students and teachers continue to prefer in-person instruction at least for elementary and secondary students, online learning has clearly become a critical component for post-secondary education. Over half of degree seekers take at least some of their classes online, and over a quarter study exclusively online.

Yet full adoption of the applications that rely on broadband to better our lives continues to be a concern, even in communities with access to high-speed internet infrastructure. This blog addresses some key barriers to broadband adoption and like the two preceding blogs, suggests ways Public Organizations can help increase adoption rates in all communities, especially in those now receiving BEAD funding.

The term broadband “adoption” refers to overcoming three main barriers that prevent communities and residents from using available broadband service to their benefit.

  • Convincing skeptics that they need a fixed high-speed internet connection in their home,
  • Overcoming the privacy concerns and the fear of criminal activity on the internet, and
  • Developing the skills needed to use broadband applications effectively.

Convincing the Skeptics

Some may be surprised that in 2024, there is still a need to make the case for fixed broadband. After all, approximately 4 out of 5  households are already connected with some form of fixed broadband at home. It doesn’t seem unreasonable to conclude that just like the voice calling to Kevin Costner in the movie “Field of Dreams” – “if you build it, they will come” – or in this case if you build out the broadband network, folks will quickly subscribe for the service.  

Unfortunately, the truth is a bit more complicated. The most recent NTIA study found that in the households that still lack a fixed internet connection in the home, nearly 6 out of 10 don’t want or feel they need broadband. That percentage dwarfs those who aren’t online because they think it is too expensive (18%) or those who say they would subscribe if service was available (4%).

Overcoming Privacy and Security Concerns

Digital privacy and security concerns also deter millions of Americans from engaging in online activities. The spread of emerging technologies and practices, such as smart home devices and online activity tracking, puts these concerns at the forefront of adoption.  A 2023 public survey of 7,500 Missouri households showed that eight out of ten respondents cited security of their personal information as their top concern of internet adoption, and over half expressed concern about seeing misleading information.

Developing Digital Skills

A high speed internet connection can enable individuals to receive online treatment from their healthcare provider at home; shop for products, pay bills and bank; apply for government benefits; work from home or start an online business. However, the same technology can sow disinformation and mistrust, steal personal financial data, or create an addictive dependency on social media. Whether the internet is used for good or for evil largely depends on whether the users are equipped with the knowledge and the skills to use broadband effectively.

Adoption Is Critical to the Success of the BEAD Program

The percentage of broadband skeptics is particularly concerning because many of those currently disconnected  reside in rural locations destined to receive the bulk of Missouri’s BEAD funding. Of course, how questions are asked can impact the response, but that should not blind us to the need for a concerted effort to make the case for the use of broadband-based applications, along with the practical digital skills training necessary to navigate the internet safely and securely.

Broadband adoption also is critical from a purely economic standpoint. If those most likely to be the beneficiaries of BEAD funding don’t think they need it, or are afraid to use broadband, ISPs face the prospect of low subscription rates in areas that already have far fewer potential subscribers per mile than urban or suburban areas.

Fortunately, these concerns can be overcome. Over half of the respondents to the 2023 public survey expressed an interest in internet training assistance. “Help finding information and resources I can trust” (33%) and “assistance with setting up or using new devices” (28%) were the top two areas.

Public Organizations’ Role in Broadband Adoption

Public Organizations are uniquely situated to provide adoption programs that will address these concerns for many reasons. First, the improvement of the health, education and economic opportunity of their constituencies is the primary mission of most every Public Organization. Second, in many cases Public Organizations have already established a local connection with the community – and specifically with members of the community most at risk of being unable to use broadband-based applications to better their lives.

Finally, for local governments and related nonprofits many of the beneficial aspects of broadband-based applications lie in the ability to deliver better services more efficiently. Those who have learned to use the internet to apply for a permit, paid taxes, reported problems with utility service or otherwise interacted with local government have found the process is faster and more convenient than making an in-person visit or filling out paper forms and submitting them by mail.

In addition to being more efficient, these same technologies can also result in significant cost savings through reduced personnel and processing. However, when many of the most vulnerable lack the skills necessary to use these technologies, much of the benefit is lost, because two processing systems must be maintained, one that operates online, and a second “paper” system that accommodates those who are unable to use the new technology.

Resources for Adoption

There are literally hundreds of Public Organizations that have developed programs designed to address one or more of the three barriers to digital adoption outlined earlier in this blog. Many can be located through Mobroadband’s Missouri’s Digital Asset Map. This resource, created by the UM System at the request of OBD, is designed to allow organizations that offer digital skills to help individuals and communities quickly locate organizations that offer digital literacy programs, such as computer classes, one-on-one technical assistance centers, and bilingual resources.

Each community may have a different set of needs, and not every program will be appropriate for every community. However, each likely will face three questions.

  • What digital adoption programs does our community need most?
  • How can we integrate and coordinate our efforts with programs like BEAD that focus on internet access?
  • How do we pay for digital adoption?   

There are tools available to answer these threshold questions. One is the Digitally Connected Community Guide offered through MU Extension. The Guide leads community stakeholders to develop a shared vision of ways broadband based applications can promote better health outcomes, online learning and education opportunities and economic opportunity in their community. With that vision, stakeholders are then provided tools to approach and engage with ISPs to create a workable written plan that focuses on using new or expanded networks in ways that implement the community’s vision.

But what programs should the community use? This will vary of course depending on the community’s specific needs. Yet ideally, in every case these adoption programs should be offered by a trusted resource, and ideally they should be capable of addressing each individual’s needs through one-on-one instruction when needed.

One idea that has been successfully piloted by MU Extension in select communities is the Digital Ambassador program. This program trains a permanent cadre of local volunteers called – “Digital Ambassadors.” Trained Digital Ambassadors share specialized knowledge with individuals in their community on topics such as telehealth, cybersecurity, social media, applications like Google Docs and Office 365. Additionally, Digital Ambassadors learn practical skills necessary to help individuals set up their internet connection at home and navigate financial obstacles to broadband use, by accessing programs that subsidize internet service or provide affordable hardware. MU Extension plans to obtain funding to expand the Digital Ambassador program to all communities throughout the state.

Funding Digital Adoption Programs

Of course, Public Organizations must determine how they will pay for digital adoption programs if they are to participate with ISPs to create “digitally connected” communities. Thankfully, one new source of funding are federal grants authorized by the Digital Equity Act. Beginning sometime late summer or early this fall, OBD  is expected to begin accepting applications from Public Organizations for up to $14.2 million in grants to pay for broadband adoption programs. Additional funding, expected to total at least $10 million, should be available over the next two fiscal years under this program.

At the same time, this summer the federal government is scheduled to begin awarding up to $1.25 billion of grants through a competitive digital adoption program administered by NTIA. These programs, along with others already in place, should offer every interested community the opportunity to obtain financial support for broadband adoption programs that can complement and support efforts to build and expand broadband infrastructure over the next five years.

Let’s Not Throw Away Our Shot

The common theme running across this series of blogs is that now is the time for action. There has never been this level of financial support at the federal government level for broadband, and there is every reason to believe this investment will not be repeated, at least in our generation. Missouri has received a significantly greater proportion of this federal funding than other states, primarily because we have a greater need. The percentage of unserved and underserved locations in our state has been among the highest in the country, and our economic progress and our quality of life have suffered because of it.

We now have an opportunity to change that. This is our shot – what will we do with it?