Tag Archives: Line Extension

Arvig gets $3.4 million from the MN’s Broadband Line Extension to expand to 446 locations

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Business Insider reports…

Arvig will begin construction this spring on an upgrade project to bring last-mile fiber connectivity to 446 structures in eight Minnesota counties.

Arvig was recently awarded grants totaling $3.4 million from the state’s Broadband Line Extension program after submitting successful lowest-cost bids to serve the locations. Arvig will invest another $442,000 to cover the remaining project costs, bringing the grand total of the project to $3.87 million. Upon completion later this year, 104.3 route miles of new fiber infrastructure will have been constructed.

The locations and number of structures to be served are:

  • Becker County: 71 structures
  • Clay County: 14 structures
  • Kandiyohi County: 37 structures
  • Lyon County: 7 structures
  • Mower County: 20 structures
  • Stearns County: 1 structure
  • Todd County: 277 structures
  • Yellow Medicine County: 19 structures

Paul Bunyan Communications broadband expansion projects estimated at almost $8 million

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The Timbeyjay reports on expansion of broadband in Northen Minnesota…

Paul Bunyan Communications is planning a significant expansion of its all-fiber optic network in parts of St. Louis and Itasca counties this year, bringing high-speed broadband service to more than 600 homes and businesses across five townships near Cook.
The project will extend the cooperative’s GigaZone network into areas south and west of Cook, including portions of Alango, Carpenter, Field, and Sturgeon townships, along with an unorganized township east of Carpenter.

I wrote about the expansions earlier, the Timberjay takes a look funding…

The total cost is estimated at $7,810,355, with funding coming from a combination of state, regional, local, and cooperative sources.
The largest share of funding, $3,924,157, is being provided through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Low-Density Population Broadband Infrastructure Development Grant Program. Paul Bunyan Communications is contributing $2,203,928 toward the project.
Additional support includes $1,000,000 from Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation, $583,250 from St. Louis County, and smaller contributions from local townships, including $41,200 from Alango Township, $17,800 from Field Township, and $40,000 from Sturgeon Township.

And a look at the larger industry and funding…

These local expansions are taking place amid broader policy changes that could shape the future of broadband deployment across the state.
Federal changes to broadband funding rules are influencing how projects are selected in Minnesota. Updated guidance issued in 2025 by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration shifted the BEAD program toward a more “technology-neutral” approach, requiring states to consider a mix of fiber, fixed wireless, and satellite options when awarding funds, rather than prioritizing fiber by default.
Minnesota’s approved BEAD plan reflects that shift, with state officials anticipating a combination of technologies to reach unserved areas, particularly in remote locations where fiber deployment is more costly. Analysts say the policy change has already begun to affect outcomes, with fiber accounting for a smaller share of proposed or funded projects than originally expected and more funding directed toward wireless and satellite options. The Minnesota Office of Broadband Development, which is overseeing roughly $652 million in federal funding, continues to work through how those federal requirements will shape final project selections and the pace of expansion across rural parts of the state.
At the same time, the shift has raised ongoing questions about long-term performance differences between technologies. Fiber networks like Paul Bunyan Communications’ GigaZone are capable of speeds up to 10 gigabits per second, far exceeding federal minimum broadband standards, while satellite-based services such as Starlink typically deliver speeds closer to 250 megabits per second, according to federal and industry data, a gap that can affect reliability, latency, and long-term scalability for users.

MN OBD Update Mar 25: Conference Registration is open and training starts soon

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Register today! April 29, Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit
  • Virtual Broadband Development Training Series, starts Thursday April 2
  • Line Extension Connection Program
  • Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) in Minnesota
  • DEED Blog: An introduction to the Minnesota Broadband Charter

Thank you to the Hmong American Partnership (HAP) and Comcast for inviting OBD to join Mayor Her of Saint Paul, along with other state and local elected officials, to participate in touring HAP’s newly renovated Lift Zone and learning how the Lift Zone continues to advance connectivity, learning, and opportunity for residents through expanding digital access, enhancing technology resources, and creating refreshed community spaces that support digital equity initiatives and emerging telehealth efforts.

Register today! April 29, Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Office of Broadband Development is hosting the Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. This in-person event will bring together national leaders, internet service providers, federal, state, tribal, and local government partners, and broadband advocates from across Minnesota. Connecting people to resources, information, and each other is critical to Minnesota’s economic stability and digital opportunity.

The summit will be held at the Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center (6155 Earle Brown Drive, Brooklyn Center, MN 55434).

We are committed to providing equal access to this conference for all participants. If you need alternative formats or other reasonable accommodations, please contact mndeedevents@state.mn.us by the close of business on Friday, April 17, 2026.

Virtual Broadband Development Training Series, starts Thursday April 2

OBD has been working alongside other state agencies on streamlining environmental reviews and permitting efforts for broadband infrastructure projects across Minnesota. Originally held in 2024, this April, OBD and state agency partners will offer four new webinar sessions through a revised Broadband Development Training Series: Navigating PLUS (Permitting, Land Use, and State Systems).

The April 2 session will feature the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) and provide an overview of DLI’s involvement with the Safety-Qualified Underground Telecommunications Installer Certification Program.

This session will be recorded and shared on the OBD Webinars and Recorded Events webpage.

Line Extension Connection Program

Registration remains open for residents and businesses for future rounds of the Line Extension Connection Program. More information and the registration page are available on the Line Extension Connection Program webpage.

For assistance completing the application or to request a paper form to complete, please call 651-259-7610 or email DEED.broadband@state.mn.us.

Outreach materials on registration were mailed to over 61,000 locations in the past week. OBD expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds in Spring 2026 and is currently in the process of rolling out awards and getting confirmation of award acceptance from providers for Round 4. Preliminary awards have been published to the Line Extension Connection Program webpage.

Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) in Minnesota

OBD continues to update the OBD BEAD webpage as resources are made available. New resources have been added on environmental permitting and the National Environmental Permitting Policy (NEPA) including:

DEED Blog: An introduction to the Minnesota Broadband Charter

“The Broadband Charter has become a vital forum for collaboration among state agencies, enabling streamlined permitting processes and improved communication while respecting each agency’s mission. By adding dedicated capacity and fostering partnerships at both state and federal levels, OBD and the Charter are ensuring that broadband infrastructure can be deployed efficiently and effectively – bringing reliable connectivity to every corner of the state.”

Read the full story on the DEED Developments Blog.

MN Office of Broadband Development Updates: Save the date! April 29, Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Save the date! April 29, Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit
  • Register now, 2026 Broadband Development Training Series
  • Line Extension Connection Program
  • Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) in Minnesota

Save the date! April 29, Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Office of Broadband Development is hosting the Connecting One: Minnesota 2026 Broadband Summit on Wednesday, April 29, 2026. This in-person event will bring together national leaders, internet service providers, federal, state, tribal, and local government partners, and broadband advocates from across Minnesota. Connecting people to resources, information, and each other is critical to Minnesota’s economic stability and digital opportunity.

The summit will be held at the Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center (6155 Earle Brown Drive, Brooklyn Center, MN 55434). Free parking will be available at the venue.

Registration will open in early spring. A $20 registration fee helps offset catering and conference costs.

We are committed to providing equal access to this conference for all participants. If you need alternative formats or other reasonable accommodations, please contact mndeedevents@state.mn.us by the close of business on Friday, April 17, 2026.

Register now, 2026 Broadband Development Training Series

OBD has been working alongside other state agencies on streamlining environmental reviews and permitting efforts for broadband infrastructure projects across Minnesota. Originally held in 2024, this April, OBD and state agency partners will offer four new webinar sessions through a revised Broadband Development Training Series: Navigating PLUS (Permitting, Land Use, and State Systems).

2026 sessions will feature a combination of updates from previous presenters and new information from partner agencies with resources for broadband program grantees. Sessions will be recorded and shared on the OBD Webinars and Recorded Events webpage.

Line Extension Connection Program

Registration remains open for residents and businesses for future rounds of the Line Extension Connection Program. More information and the registration page are available on the Line Extension Connection Program webpage.

For assistance completing the application or to request a paper form to complete, please call 651-259-7610 or email DEED.broadband@state.mn.us.

Outreach materials on registration will be mailed to over 61,000 locations in the coming weeks. OBD expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds in Spring 2026 and is currently in the process of rolling out awards and getting confirmation of award acceptance from providers for Round 4. Preliminary awards have been published to the Line Extension Connection Program webpage.

Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) in Minnesota

OBD continues to update the OBD BEAD webpage as resources are made available.

On December 19, 2025, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approved Minnesota’s BEAD Final Proposal, advancing the state’s plan to expand high‑speed internet with federal funding. Following extensive engagement, restructuring, and over 18 rounds of curing, Minnesota has been initially approved for:

  • $378.9 million in BEAD subgrants across 94 projects. These projects are supported by nearly $190 million in matching funds, representing a total anticipated investment of more than $568.8 million
  • Funds will connect 74,739 locations

On Monday February 9, 2026 OBD received its BEAD Notice of Award (NoA) from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Next steps will include contracting with subgrantees, which must be completed within 6 months of receipt of the NoA.

BEAD in the news:

Office of Broadband Development Feb 25, 2026: BEAD & Line Extension updates

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Coming soon! 2026 Broadband Development Training Series
  • Line Extension Connection Program updates
  • Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) in Minnesota
  • Broadband Task Force, February meeting recap
  • In the news, Bree Maki: Got broadband? If no, it may arrive later this year

Executive Director, Bree Maki, presented Office of Broadband Development legislative updates to the Senate Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee, Wednesday February 18 and the House Agriculture Finance and Policy Committee, Monday February 23.

Recordings and materials from both are available in the archives on the Senate webpage and House webpage.

Coming soon! 2026 Broadband Development Training Series

OBD has been working alongside other state agencies on streamlining environmental reviews and permitting efforts for broadband infrastructure projects across Minnesota. Those updates will be presented to community partners through a revised Broadband Development Training Series: Navigating PLUS (Permitting, Land Use, and State Systems).

The revised series will feature a combination of updates from previous presenters and new information from partner agencies with resources for broadband program grantees. Registration information for the webinar sessions will be posted alongside the materials from the original 2024 series on the OBD Webinars and Recorded Events webpage.

Line Extension Connection Program updates

Registration remains open for residents and businesses for future rounds of the Line Extension Connection Program. More information and the registration page is available on the Line Extension Connection Program webpage.

For assistance completing the application or to request a paper form to complete please call 651-259-7610 or email DEED.broadband@state.mn.us.

OBD expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds in Spring 2026 and is currently in the process of rolling out awards and getting confirmation of award acceptance from providers for Round 4. Preliminary awards will be published to the Line Extension Connection Program webpage later this week.

Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) in Minnesota

OBD continues to update the OBD BEAD webpage as resources are made available. This includes:

On December 19, 2025, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approved Minnesota’s BEAD Final Proposal, advancing the state’s plan to expand high‑speed internet with federal funding. Following extensive engagement, restructuring, and over 18 rounds of curing, Minnesota has been initially approved for:

  • $378.9 million in BEAD subgrants across 94 projects. These projects are supported by nearly $190 million in matching funds, representing a total anticipated investment of more than $568.8 million
  • Funds will connect connect 74,739 locations

On Monday February 9, 2026 OBD received its BEAD Notice of Award (NoA) from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Next steps will include contracting with subgrantees, which must be completed within 6 months of receipt of the NoA.

Broadband Task Force, February meeting recap

The Broadband Task Force met Wednesday February 18 at 10 a.m. The Task Force heard presentations from Tabetha Brockman (Assistant Professor of Psychology, Program Manager, Mayo Clinic Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCaTS) Rural Health Research Core) and Ilaya Rome Hopkins (Community Engagement Coordinator, MCCCC & CCaTS Rural Health Research Core) on Rural Health Research: Understanding Digital Access to Improve Community Health. Minnesota Governor’s Task Force on Broadband Member, Ini Augustine (Chief Executive Officer, Technologist Computers), presented on the Neighbors Connect Digital Access Program.

More information on this and past meetings can be found on the Broadband Task Force webpage.

In the news, Bree Maki: Got broadband? If no, it may arrive later this year

Executive Director, Bree Maki, discussed the state of broadband access in Minnesota in Rochester’s Post-Bulletin, noting:

“Broadband is an absolute necessity in today’s world. Nearly every family relies on fast internet to connect to work, school, health care, entertainment, friends and family. Minnesota businesses need it to reach customers, compete locally or globally, and grow. It allows people to live and work where they wish to across the state. But too many Minnesotans still don’t have access to broadband.”

The full op-ed is available online here.

Office of Broadband Development presentation to MN House Committee on Agriculture Finance and Policy

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Today, the Office of Broadband Development presents to MN House Committee on Agriculture Finance and Policy:

Monday, February 23, 2026, 1:00 PM
Agriculture Finance and Policy
Co-Chair: Rep. Paul Anderson holds the gavel
Co-Chair: Rep. Rick Hansen
Location: Capitol G3

The presentation will look remarkably similar to the recent presentation given to the Senate Committee last week.

*this is a link to the live video, broadband starts around 3:15. I will replace this with the archive video once available.

QUESTIONS:

  • Q Line Extension: I heard they were being assessed an extra fee because their connection was copper. In Stearns County, but this county wasn’t a part of the county effort to get service.
    We will need to look at the location. Line Extension won’t overbuild.
  • Any impact from tariffs?
    Not yet – as far as current construction. But we hear with BEAD that suppliers are having challenges. BEAD is required to buy American/build America – but we’re running into shortages there because the supplies weren’t for broadband only. We may be looking for waivers.
  • Q: We have a lot of folks on LEO & Fixed wireless – do you know cost of location? And how it might increase?
    Within BEAD: LEO didn’t apply during program so no limitations. Both were awarded another way at $900-1800 per location but we don’t know what we will be buying. Would have to dig to get stats on fixed wireless. Average cost in BEAD was around $5000 taking in account all modes of broadband. Highest cost was $36,000 per location. It was not accepted. But we did get approval for $22,000 per location.
  • Q: Shouldn’t we try to get fiber for a minimum of $5000? What’s our goal with fiber?
    BEAD is its own thing. State programs and goals are different.
  • Q: LEOA and fixed wireless – do they meet state requirements for speeds?
    No
  • Q: Why are we doing this in rural areas?
    It helps the childcare shortage by allowing childcare workers to do professional development at home. Also it makes reporting to the State easier.
  • Q: Who builds the broadband? Do you work with contractors or do you put our an RFP?
    OBD grants are for broadband providers.
  • Q: Do you have issues with workforce shortages?
    ISPs generally plan in advance. But it is a challenge.
  • Q: Given the federal funds and state investment when will we get ubiquitous broadband?
    We thought it would be $1.2 billion.
  • Q: How is MN doing?
    We have been doing this work for a long time so our questions are more complex than other states.
  • Q: It used to be that local providers got dibs on funding. Is that still true?
    We do rank applications by local support. It behooves providers to build relationships with the community.

Waseca County celebrates strong progress on rural broadband

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Waseca County News reports…

Buoyed by nearly $8 million in largely state-driven investment, Waseca County has made dramatic strides over the last couple of Lino offer congratulations for the achievement award and the progress the county has made in expanding access to high speed broadband.

They report on the Waseca’s ranking in the country broadband profiles…

According to the nonprofit Blandin Foundation, Waseca County had been stuck for several years in the “red” category, ranking in the bottom tier of Minnesota counties with only about three-quarters of county residents having access to broadband

Thanks to several recently approved multi-million dollar projects, the share of Waseca County residents with access to high speed broadband meeting the state’s 2026 goals has increased to around 84%, pushing it from the “red” tier into yellow.

Back in 2024, local service provider Bevcomm received close to $6 million in grant funding to build nearly 200 miles of mainline broadband which now provides internet service for hundreds of families in the lightly populated southwest portion of the county, centered around Waldorf.

Thanks to that major investment, almost every home and business in southwest Waseca County now has access to high speed broadband. Future projects will instead focus on the northern portion of the county around Waseca and Janesville, and east of Highway 13.

And offer a recommendation to get even closer to goal…

However, to close the deal on the “last mile” broadband projects which tend to be particularly expensive, Kraus is asking county residents for their help, specifically those rural residents who continue to be unserved or underserved by current infrastructure.

Under the Minnesota Broadband Line Extension Program, Waseca County residents or business owners who have no internet or broadband less than the 25 mbs downloads/3 mbs uploads can apply for up to $25,000 to get a line extension to their home or business.

Year End Broadband Update from the Office of Broadband Development: notes and video

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The Office of Broadband Development gave a year end review this morning. They spoke about what’s happened in the last year, which focused on BEAD. The big news is that they are still waiting to get final approval of the BEAD proposal. They have had 18 rounds of curing the proposal and it sounds as if they are getting close. They hope to hear more before the end of the year. Sonds they are also hoping for State funds in the future.

They shared information on how much each county is slated to review from BEAD.

Lots of details on what the process will be for subgrantees once the proposal is approved.

They are hoping to announce the last round awards for Line Extension funding.

Questions:

Will the OBD release a template Attorney Letter associated with the LoC & Performance Bond?
They are working on what they need. An answer will be available soon.

When/how will we receive the geospatial request and how long will we have to complete that information?
Hi Jamie, when our grantor portal opens, you can upload the project’s geospatial data to the portal. I recommend taking a look at the geospatial data you submitted when you applied and see if it meets the requirements mentioned in the slide and if it includes all of the preliminary awarded locations.  There is no limit on how long you have to complete the geospatial data, but the faster you submit, the faster we will be able to review and work through NEPA.
The Us Forestry permitting process can take up to 270 days….

Hi! Should we plan on further location negotiations taking place once there is approval from NTIA?
We will be reaching out to providers/applicants. There will be an opportunity to negotiate but we won’t know how much negotiation is possible given federal rules.

Megan, please explain how requests for permits from US Forestry or MN DNR interface with MN’s NEPA permitting. If the NTIA/MN NEPA determination is that the project should be awarded a CatEX, how does that CatEX expedite permits from US Forestry, Fish & Game or MN DNR.
We recommend getting through NEPA through ESAP tool. That can be submitted this licenses and permits. The agencies will want to see the NEPA info.

Megan following up, on NEPA determination question above, did the NTIA get interagency agreements from BLM, US Forestry to honor the NTIA CatEX determination?
Not positive. Both have released a memo about broadband.

Office of Broadband Development Matters Dec 3: Upcoming meetings

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From the Office of Broadband Development… (I plan to post each event separately too, just so folks are sure to see them)

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • December webinar + BEAD updates
  • Line Extension Connection Program update
  • Broadband Task Force, December meeting plans
  • Broadband National Expo, State Showcase – Minnesota’s Collaborative Approach to Broadband Deployment

December webinar + BEAD updates

OBD will be hosting a webinar, Minnesota Broadband Updates on Wednesday December 17 at 11am to recap Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) efforts in 2025 and go over next steps for what the OBD expects for broadband grant programs going into 2026. This webinar is open to the public and will be recorded and posted to the OBD BEAD webpage. Registration is available below.

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) continues to announce approved Final Proposals for BEAD, which can be followed from NTIA’s BEAD Progress Dashboard. OBD expects approval will come through soon, and will be in-line with NTIA’s timeline of reviewing and approving proposals within 90 days of when the Final Proposal was submitted. Minnesota submitted the BEAD Final Proposal to NTIA on September 4, 2025.

Continue to watch for updates! The OBD BEAD webpage will be undergoing changes, along with new and additional resources being added.

Line Extension Connection Program update

The Round 4 Line Extension bidding window closed on November 25, 2025.

OBD is evaluating the bids submitted during Round 4 and expects to announce award decisions soon. Updates will be posted to the OBD Line Extension Connection Program webpage.

While the window for residential and business sign-ups to be included in the bidding for Round 4 of the Line Extension Connection Program closed, registration will remain open for future rounds if and as funding is available. OBD expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds.

Questions on Line Extension can be sent to deed.broadband@state.mn.us or (651)-259-7610.

Broadband Task Force, December meeting plans

The Broadband Task Force will be meeting on Thursday December 18 at 10am. This meeting will be held virtually and is open to anyone from the public to attend. The Teams link to join the meeting will be included at the top of the meeting agenda, which will be posted along with other information on past meetings on the Broadband Task Force webpage.

Broadband National Expo, State Showcase – Minnesota’s Collaborative Approach to Broadband Deployment

OBD’s Executive Director, Bree Maki, attended the Broadband National Expo in Orlando Florida, and spoke on the November 20th panel, State Showcase – Minnesota’s Collaborative Approach to Broadband Deployment, alongside Joe Buttweiler (Chief Strategy Officer, CTC) and Brent Christensen (President/CEO,
Minnesota Telecom Alliance), pictured below.

Minnesota is proud of it’s collaborative partnerships and is continuing to see success by these efforts.

Did your county get any of the $20 million in MN Line Extension grants in the last three rounds?

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Congrats to the counties who have done well getting Line Extension grants. Congrats to the counties who don’t need them. For counties who need help getting better broadband and haven’t been getting Line Extension funding, here’s more information.

The numbers for Line Extension awards by county are now available for the three rounds that have been awarded. For those you don’t wake up Monday looking for the latest updates on MN broadband, I’ll start with a little reminder. Line Extension is a broadband support managed by the Office of Broadband Development. Info on how it works from the Office of Broadband Development…

Residential and business locations that are unserved (lack access to speeds of at least 25Mbps download and 3Mbps upload) can apply by entering their information into the Line Extension Connection portal*. This will initiate their interest in receiving broadband internet service and make their location available for consideration. By submitting your address into the Line Extension Connection portal, internet service providers will have the opportunity to review the location and submit a bid based on the cost to bring service to your location. The Office of Broadband Development will evaluate these bids and required provider documentation and make awards to the providers whose bid proposes the lowest cost to the State for extension of the service.

It helps fill in holes in a community where there’s one household that two miles off the road or maybe the six houses on the “other side” of the lake. In light of promise of federal BEAD funding, Line Extension has been the only focus of state funding for broadband this year.

The Office of Broadband has recently shared updated number of how much each county has received. (You can download the spreadsheet for more information.)

Over three rounds, $20,314,363.07 has been awarded. Below are the grant total awards in order of the amount received by county. A few quick notes: not every county has received awards, because not every county needs the help. (At least 10 MN counties have more than 99 percent broadband coverage, as of last year.) Even in this list, the need is variable. You can learn more about the next round of Line Extension grants from the Office of Broadband Development.

County Grand Total (Dollars)
Becker 2850601.5
St. Louis 2619282.61
Crow Wing 2455450.17
Todd 1943261.7
Wabasha 1182818
Morrison 946640
Pine 735691.19
Mahnomen 722588.48
Aitkin 689620.88
Washington 680789
Wright 603805.31
Winona 472220
Scott 410871.52
Otter Tail 384714.84
Kandiyohi 378273.28
Meeker 318997.39
Dakota 283639.8
Hubbard 265000.94
Anoka 246223
Jackson 200561.6
Clay 200522.72
Hennepin 198769
Stearns 144480
Le Sueur 127288.13
Itasca 126357.54
Cass 97449
Rice 85860.66
Carlton 75958.79
Lyon 75474.94
Yellow Medicine 75474.94
Dodge 73944.5
Renville 72395.54
Mower 71966.49
Carver 65664
Swift 59800
Goodhue 59393.27
Douglas 46361.52
Redwood 41853.6
Lake of the Woods 41427
Big Stone 35000
Lac qui Parle 29000
Chippewa 25500
Martin 23220.72
Sherburne 22482.03
Stevens 20000
Kittson 16375.07
Cottonwood 11292.4

 

Office of Broadband Update Oct 22: Task Force Meeting, Line Extension and BEAD updates

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The Office of Broadband Development reports…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Broadband Task Force, October meeting recap
  • Line Extension Connection Program update
  • BEAD updates
  • OBD in the news

Broadband Task Force, October meeting recap

The Broadband Task Force met on Wednesday October 15 in Clearwater, Minnesota at the TelCom Construction (TCC) Training Facility. The Task Force heard presentations from TCC leadership on their training programs and got hands on experience with equipment demonstrations. Thank you TCC for hosting and sharing their facility and expertise!

More information on this and past meetings can be found on the Broadband Task Force webpage.

Line Extension Connection Program update

The Round 4 Line Extension bidding window opened, September 26, 2025.

OBD expects the round to have $3.5M in Capital Projects Fund (CPF) dollars available to grant. Information and resources on Line Extension are posted to the OBD Line Extension Connection Program webpage. OBD also expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds.

While the window for residential and business sign-ups to be included in the bidding for Round 4 of the Line Extension Connection Program has closed, registration will remain open for future rounds if and as funding is available.

Questions on Line Extension can be sent to deed.broadband@state.mn.us or (651)-259-7610.

BEAD updates

As required by the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program, the Minnesota OBD submitted its Final Draft Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), including the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, on September 4, 2025. NTIA has committed to review and approve plans in 90 days.

OBD will continue to revise and update the documents as required by NTIA and as is necessary to ensure all BEAD eligible locations are served as defined by the policy notice. 

Updated and additional information will be posted to the OBD BEAD webpage.

OBD in the news

Pictured above: Moderator Kevin Sievert (Senior Manager, Broadband Funding) and panelists, Derrick Owens (Sr. VP of Government & Industry Affairs, WTA), Bree Maki (Executive Director, Minnesota Office of Broadband Development), and Marissa Mitrovich (VP, Public Policy FBA).

Earlier this week, OBD staff attended ConneXions 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. OBD’s Executive Director Bree Maki spoke on the panel, the State of Bead. The panel discussed how state offices and internet services providers have navigated the BEAD program’s changes, integrated the new rules into programs, and plan for completion.

Director Maki was also featured on season 6, episode 50 of the Connected Nation podcast, titled Connecting the Land of 10,000 Lakes. The episode, which covered connecting Minnesotans to broadband, can be streamed here.

Office of Broadband Development Updates Oct 8: Conferences. Line Extension and BEAD Updates

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Broadband in the news
  • Line Extension Connection Program update
  • BEAD updates
  • Broadband Task Force, October meeting plans

Broadband in the news

OBD Executive Director, Bree Maki (pictured above) on the panel, The Future of Broadband Policy & BEAD Program Implementation at the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE) TechExpo25.

More mentions of BEAD in the news include Broadband Breakfast’s story on States race to meet federal broadband funding deadline and the Fierce Network’s States feel pressured to hurry up with new BEAD rules.

Bree Maki and OBD’s new Broadband Environmental and Land Use Coordinator, Megan Messerole, presented at the Minnesota Telecom Alliance 2025 Fall Conference. The event focused on key issues impacting the telecommunications industry, and Megan shared on her new role in working with internet service providers on navigating permitting processes for both state and federally funded broadband projects.

Line Extension Connection Program update

The Round 4 Line Extension bidding window opened, September 26, 2025.

OBD expects the round to have $3.5M in Capital Projects Fund (CPF) dollars available to grant. Information and resources on Line Extension are posted to the OBD Line Extension Connection Program webpage. OBD also expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds.

While the window for residential and business sign-ups to be included in the bidding for Round 4 of the Line Extension Connection Program has closed, registration will remain open for future rounds if and as funding is available.

Questions on Line Extension can be sent to deed.broadband@state.mn.us or (651)-259-7610.

BEAD updates

As required by the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program, the Minnesota OBD submitted its Final Draft Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), including the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, on September 4, 2025. NTIA has committed to review and approve plans in 90 days.

OBD will continue to revise and update the documents as required by NTIA and as is necessary to ensure all BEAD eligible locations are served as defined by the policy notice.

Updated and additional information will be posted to the OBD BEAD webpage.

Broadband Task Force, October meeting plans

The Broadband Task Force will be meeting on Wednesday, October 15 from 10am-12:30pm in Clearwater, MN at a TelCom Construction Training Facility. This meeting will be held in-person and is open to anyone from the public to attend.

Information on this and past meetings can be found on the Broadband Task Force webpage.

Office of Broadband Development Update Sep 24, 2025: BEAD mapping and Line Extension

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Mapping + data updates for providers
  • BEAD updates
  • Line Extension Connection Program update
  • OBD in the field
  • Broadband Task Force, September meeting recap

Mapping + data updates for providers

Reminder for internet service providers!

The Office of Broadband Development, in partnership with our mapping vendor, Connected Nation, does perform a Fall update to the broadband coverage in Minnesota that is published on the interactive map at the end of the year. Because a busy construction season is wrapping up and we are planning to offer a fifth grant round of Line Extension at the new year, OBD wants to remind all providers that this data collection is the major mapping update for the Minnesota Broadband map. If you have completed construction of a broadband project since your last mapping data submission to Connected Nation in Fall 2024, please take this opportunity to have that updated coverage information included in this annual mapping update.

The deadline for submitting coverage information for this effort is Thursday October 2, 2025.

If you have questions about submitting coverage data, or didn’t receive outreach from Connected Nation, feel free to contact the Office of Broadband Development by email at deed.broadband@state.mn.us or by phone at (651)-259-7610.

BEAD updates

As required by the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program, the Minnesota OBD submitted its Final Draft Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), including the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce, on September 4, 2025. NTIA has committed to review and approve plans in 90 days.

OBD will continue to revise and update the documents as required by NTIA and necessary to ensure all BEAD eligible locations are served as defined by the policy notice.

On September 22, NTIA released for the first time in writing the following cost thresholds for the BEAD program. The percentile is based off of the cost estimate that NTIA has determined. Every state has different numbers based on NTIA’s decisions and Minnesota’s federally determined cost thresholds are as follows:

  • 65-85th percentile, $10,000 to $20,000 per BSL – provider needs additional explanation for cost
  • 85th to 85th plus 15%, $20,000 to $23,000 – possibility for extraordinary circumstances to be explained by provider and try to get price under $20,000
  • Over 85th plus 15% percentile, $23,000 – providers have 72 hours to renegotiate price

Updated and additional information will be posted to the OBD BEAD webpage.

Line Extension Connection Program update

After the location addresses were posted for review on September 15 and challenges are submitted by September 24, the Round 4 Line Extension bidding window will open September 26, 2025.

OBD expects the round to have $3.5M in Capital Projects Fund (CPF) dollars available to grant. Information and resources on Line Extension are posted to the OBD Line Extension Connection Program webpage. OBD also expects to run a fifth round of Line Extension with state project funds.

Questions on Line Extension can be sent to deed.broadband@state.mn.us or (651)-259-7610.

OBD in the field

Commissioner Ida Rukavina of the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) and OBD Executive Director Bree Maki at the State of the Range event.

OBD has been busy attending events statewide like the Broadband Public Alliance meeting, Association of Minnesota Counties annual meeting, State of the Range (pictured above), and Minnesota Cable Association reception to provide updates on state broadband programs and BEAD in Minnesota.

Since August, OBD staff have gone on over 15 site visits for Mediacom, Savage Communications, Inc (SCI), Gardonville, Consolidated Telephone Company (CTC), Arvig, Acentek, Harmony/MiEnergy/MiBroadband, Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative (MLEC), East Central Energy (ECE), Johnson Telephone Company, Frontier, Benton Communications, Meeker, and Lismore projects.

Pictured below: Trucks hauling and installing main line fiber conduit at a Round 10 site visit for an Acentek project in Canton Township. 

Broadband Task Force, September meeting recap

The Broadband Task Force met on Monday September 22. The Task Force heard presentations from Communication Service for the Deaf on their programs and work for individuals in the deaf and hard of hearing community, and state speed goal updates from the Pew Charitable Trusts. Thank you to presenters for sharing their time and expertise!

More information on this and past meetings can be found on the Broadband Task Force webpage.

Office of Broadband Development Updates: Upcoming events and BEAD & Line Extension updates

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Broadband Task Force at August Farmfest
  • Restructured BEAD Round updates + upcoming information sessions
  • Line Extension Connection Program
  • Broadband events and news

Broadband Task Force at August Farmfest

The Broadband Task Force met at Minnesota Farmfest last week to discuss the important connection between broadband and agriculture. This meeting featured a panel discussion with Commissioner Thom Petersen (Department of Agriculture), Miles Kuschel (Board of Directors, District 6, Minnesota Farm Bureau), and Anne Schwagerl (Vice President, Minnesota Farmers Union) on topics around precision agriculture, AI in agriculture, and the future of broadband in agriculture in Minnesota.

A huge thank you to the panelists and attendees for sharing their time and expertise in discussing this important topic.

Restructured BEAD Round updates + upcoming information sessions

OBD is currently reviewing and deconflicting locations from the Restructured Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Round of subgrantee selection.

Next steps and additional resources to watch for on the OBD BEAD webpage include:

  • Registration now open for the Minnesota BEAD Final Proposal Virtual Information Session, Thursday August 28 at 11am CST, which will provide an overview of the Final Proposal, steps for public comment, and next steps for BEAD in Minnesota. This webinar will be recorded and posted to the OBD BEAD webpage.
  • The Minnesota BEAD Final Proposal will be posted to the OBD BEAD webpage for a 7-day public comment on Thursday August 28. The Final Proposal is due to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) by Friday September 4.
  • Coming soon: OBD will be announcing regional, in-person Final Proposal Information Sessions on the BEAD Final Proposal. These will be scheduled the first week in September, and open to anyone to attend with no registration required. When finalized, dates and logistics will be posted to the OBD BEAD webpage and shared in another email blast.

If you have questions on the webinars or in-person events, please reach out to deed.broadband@state.mn.us.  

The Minnesota Line Extension Connection Program aims to connect residents and businesses that lack access to wired broadband internet service with service providers and assist in the expense of extending broadband to those locations.

Owners of residential and business locations lacking a wired internet connection with access to actual speeds equal to or greater than 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload, can submit their address location for bid consideration by entering their information into the Line Extension Connection portal to initiate their interest in receiving broadband internet service. Applicants should complete every applicable question including providing additional comments that will help explain the critical need of broadband for the household/business, including any barriers. More information on how to submit an application via portal, phone, or mail is available on the OBD Line Extension Connection webpage.

Broadband events and news

The Minnesota Public Broadband Alliance, member of the American Association for Public Broadband, is offering a free event, What’s Next for Broadband in Minnesota on September 10 at 9am in New Prague, MN.

The even will host featured speakers, Gigi Sohn of the American Association of Public Broadband, Christopher Mitchel of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, and OBD’s Executive Director Bree Maki. More information on the event is available online and registration is open below:

Minnesota broadband was additionally featured:

  • Director Maki was also quoted in an August 6 Star Tribune article, on the impacts of the BEAD program on OBD’s work: “[Minnesota] had this big program that we really thought could maximize the state and federal efforts,” Maki said, “and the timing is just taking a little longer than anticipated.”

Office of Broadband Development Updates July 30, 2025: BEAD and Line Extension

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From the Office of Broadband Development…

Broadband Matters: Office of Broadband Development Updates

  • Out and About in Greater MN
  • Restructured BEAD Round updates
  • Line Extension Connection Program
  • Remembering Senator Bruce Anderson’s impact on broadband

Out and About in Greater MN

Representative Nathan Nelson, ECE President/CEO Justin Jahnz, Senator Aric Putnam, and OBD Executive Director Bree Maki.

Along with staff from East Central Energy (ECE), officials from the Minnesota Legislature and the Minnesota Office of Broadband Development met in Pine City on July 17 to observe speed testing and review progress tied to state-funded broadband grants as part of the ongoing ECE Fiber broadband expansion project. Senator Aric Putnam, Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Broadband, and Rural Development, and Representative Nathan Nelson (District 11B) joined the site visit to better understand the progress of rural broadband deployment by electric cooperatives. The group observed performance testing and mapping verifications to ensure compliance with network speed and coverage requirements.

OBD staff have been busy with additional site visits across the state, and have seen updates on state Broadband Grant Programs and the Line Extension Connection Program through visits with: Access Networks, Midco, Garden Valley Technologies (GVT), Otter Tail Telcom, Savage Communications, Inc (SCI), Interstate Telecommunications Company (ITC), Bevcomm, Arvig, Federated Rural Elective Association, Southwest Minnesota Broadband, and KMTelecom.

Outside GVT office for annual site visits: GVT Chief Facilities Officer Jon Smith, GVT Chief Financial Officer Kristi Benson, OBD Staff Samantha Ernst, and GVT CEO/General Manager Tim Brinkman.

Restructured BEAD Round updates

Minnesota saw the close of it’s Restructured Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Round of subgrantee selection, which ran July 14 through July 24, 1:30pm CST. OBD has begun review and deconfliction of the submitted applications.

Updates as they are available will be posted to the OBD BEAD webpage, including a direct negotiation process for locations that did not secure bids and posting the Final Proposal for public comment (posted by August 28) in compliance with National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) guidelines.

Line Extension Connection Program

The Minnesota Line Extension Connection Program aims to connect residents and businesses that lack access to wired broadband internet service with service providers and assist in the expense of extending broadband to those locations.

Owners of residential and business locations lacking a wired internet connection with access to actual speeds equal to or greater than 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload, can submit their address location for bid consideration by entering their information into the Line Extension Connection portal to initiate their interest in receiving broadband internet service. Applicants should complete every applicable question including providing additional comments that will help explain the critical need of broadband for the household/business, including any barriers. More information on how to submit an application via portal, phone, or mail is available on the OBD Line Extension Connection webpage.

 

Remembering Senator Bruce Anderson’s impact on broadband

The Office of Broadband Development would like to extend gratitude to the late, Senator Bruce Anderson for his lifelong work in understanding and expanding broadband access for his constituents and across Minnesota. Reflection and recognition of Senator Anderson’s impact on key issues through his service on the Senate Agriculture, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee have been recognized by many, including an article published by Minnesota Public Radio.