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ResourcesHelpful LinksArchivesBEAD Announcements Archive
NEWS August 26, 2025
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Date |
Milestone |
Friday, June 6, 2025 |
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) releases the "BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice" |
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 |
Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) opens prequalification for the Benefit of the Bargain round |
Monday, June 30, 2025 |
OBAE closes prequalification for the Benefit of the Bargain round |
Thursday, July 3, 2025 |
OBAE publishes updated application materials and eligible location lists for the Benefit of the Bargain Round |
Monday, July 7, 2025 |
OBAE opens application portal for the Benefit of the Bargain round |
Monday, July 21, 2025 |
OBAE closes application portal for the Benefit of the Bargain round |
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 |
OBAE begins application review and subgrantee selection |
Friday, August 22, 2025 |
OBAE completes application review and subgrantee selection |
Monday, August 25, 2025 |
OBAE publishes the Final Proposal for Public Comment |
Thursday, September 4, 2025 |
State of New Mexico submits the Final Proposal to the NTIA |
BEAD Prequalification Applications Deadline is Extended Through June 30
June 24, 2025
The New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) is extending the deadline to submit prequalification applications for the Benefit of the Bargain round of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
Applicants now have until Monday, June 30, at 11:59 pm MT to submit their applications.
The Benefit of the Bargain round comes after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced earlier this month a restructuring of the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
All prospective BEAD applicants must prequalify. Organizations with a pending prequalification application must update their application to align with the new rules and have been contacted directly by OBAE. Organizations that are already prequalified do NOT need to resubmit a prequalification application.
Visit the BEAD Applications Page to access the Prequalification Application.
The state must comply with the new NTIA rules to expand and deploy broadband infrastructure.
The federal changes affect all 50 states and territories and are designed to streamline costs and to ensure all broadband technologies are considered. States and territories have until September 4 to submit their final proposals, and the NTIA will then review and approve proposals within 90 days.
This prequalification process enables prospective applicants to demonstrate their capacity to plan, finance, deploy, and maintain broadband networks in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. OBAE will use this process to prequalify applicants in advance of opening the Benefit of the Bargain application window.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at [email protected].
Applicants now have until Monday, June 30, at 11:59 pm MT to submit their applications.
The Benefit of the Bargain round comes after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced earlier this month a restructuring of the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
All prospective BEAD applicants must prequalify. Organizations with a pending prequalification application must update their application to align with the new rules and have been contacted directly by OBAE. Organizations that are already prequalified do NOT need to resubmit a prequalification application.
Visit the BEAD Applications Page to access the Prequalification Application.
The state must comply with the new NTIA rules to expand and deploy broadband infrastructure.
The federal changes affect all 50 states and territories and are designed to streamline costs and to ensure all broadband technologies are considered. States and territories have until September 4 to submit their final proposals, and the NTIA will then review and approve proposals within 90 days.
This prequalification process enables prospective applicants to demonstrate their capacity to plan, finance, deploy, and maintain broadband networks in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements. OBAE will use this process to prequalify applicants in advance of opening the Benefit of the Bargain application window.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at [email protected].
OBAE Accepting Prequalification Applications for Benefit of the Bargain Round
June 17, 2025
The New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) is accepting prequalification applications for the BEAD Program in compliance with the BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice issued by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on June 6, 2025. This process enables prospective applicants to establish their qualifications and capabilities to plan, finance, deploy, and maintain broadband networks while driving commercial success and adhering to all legal and regulatory requirements. OBAE aims to prequalify prospective applicants in advance of accepting Benefit of the Bargain Round applications. Organizations that are already prequalified need not submit an additional prequalification application. The deadline to submit a Prequalification application is June 25, 2025 at 11:59pm MT.
For more information and to submit a Prequalification application, visit the BEAD Applications page.
For more information and to submit a Prequalification application, visit the BEAD Applications page.
Notice to Unlicensed Fixed Wireless (ULFW) providers serving Broadband Serviceable Locations (BSL) that are eligible for BEAD funding
June 12, 2025
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) issued a “Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program Restructuring Policy Notice” (Policy Notice) on June 6, 2025.
In compliance with the Policy Notice, OBAE notes the following:
If you are an ULFW provider that has reported service to BEAD-eligible locations in New Mexico in the FCC's Broadband Data Collection system with technology code 70, and you believe the performance of your ULFW service meets the technical specifications for BEAD performance as documented in the Policy Notice (Appendix A), then you must notify OBAE at [email protected] within seven calendar days of this posting dated June 12, 2025 if you intend to submit evidence that BEAD funding is not required for the locations you serve.
After submitting your notification of intent to submit evidence, you then have seven calendar days to submit the evidence required “supporting the claim that the existing ULFW services meet the same technical and service standards required for a ULFW application for a BEAD subgrant (see Appendix A of [the Policy Notice]) and the provider is reasonably capable of delivering the service for at least four years after the date of Final Proposal submission.” [Policy Notice, p. 14.]
NTIA has provided standards of proof in Appendix A of the Policy Notice. These “Unlicensed Fixed Wireless Service Requirements” include:
Please note that, because NTIA’s Policy Notice requires OBAE to complete this process, execute a new BEAD subgrantee selection round, and submit the results under the new rules within 90 days of the Policy Notice (June 6, 2025), there will be no time for curing ULFW evidence submissions. Please carefully review the Policy Notice guidance and submit your evidence in compliance with the requirements. Improper or inadequate submissions may result in OBAE rejecting your submission in full or in part which will impact the funding status of these BEAD locations.
To download a list of providers claiming ULFW service in the current version of the FCC Fabric, and the documents required for an evidence submission, click the buttons below.
In compliance with the Policy Notice, OBAE notes the following:
If you are an ULFW provider that has reported service to BEAD-eligible locations in New Mexico in the FCC's Broadband Data Collection system with technology code 70, and you believe the performance of your ULFW service meets the technical specifications for BEAD performance as documented in the Policy Notice (Appendix A), then you must notify OBAE at [email protected] within seven calendar days of this posting dated June 12, 2025 if you intend to submit evidence that BEAD funding is not required for the locations you serve.
After submitting your notification of intent to submit evidence, you then have seven calendar days to submit the evidence required “supporting the claim that the existing ULFW services meet the same technical and service standards required for a ULFW application for a BEAD subgrant (see Appendix A of [the Policy Notice]) and the provider is reasonably capable of delivering the service for at least four years after the date of Final Proposal submission.” [Policy Notice, p. 14.]
NTIA has provided standards of proof in Appendix A of the Policy Notice. These “Unlicensed Fixed Wireless Service Requirements” include:
- The list of locations for which the provider has proof of BEAD-qualified service
- Evidence of network design, equipment, and strategy for mitigating interference
- Evidence that all submitted locations can meet minimal BEAD performance requirements of 100/20 Mbps speed and latency of no more than 100ms and reserve sufficient capacity in the network for simultaneous provision of service at BEAD speeds and spikes in interference
Please note that, because NTIA’s Policy Notice requires OBAE to complete this process, execute a new BEAD subgrantee selection round, and submit the results under the new rules within 90 days of the Policy Notice (June 6, 2025), there will be no time for curing ULFW evidence submissions. Please carefully review the Policy Notice guidance and submit your evidence in compliance with the requirements. Improper or inadequate submissions may result in OBAE rejecting your submission in full or in part which will impact the funding status of these BEAD locations.
To download a list of providers claiming ULFW service in the current version of the FCC Fabric, and the documents required for an evidence submission, click the buttons below.
NTIA Releases BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice
June 12, 2025
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) issued its widely anticipated “BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice” on Friday, June 6, 2025. The policy notice establishes new requirements for each state’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
Please know that the OBAE is analyzing the new BEAD Program requirements and developing an approach to comply with NTIA’s restructuring approach. We look forward to providing clear and concise guidance to support applicants and other partners. We will communicate through all of our program channels as soon as feasible.
Please know that the OBAE is analyzing the new BEAD Program requirements and developing an approach to comply with NTIA’s restructuring approach. We look forward to providing clear and concise guidance to support applicants and other partners. We will communicate through all of our program channels as soon as feasible.
NM receives 66 applications for $675M BEAD Program
3/27/2025
3/27/2025
Today, the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) announced that 18 entities have submitted a total of 66 applications for $675 million in New Mexico grants through the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.
Entities competing for BEAD funding include 10 internet service providers, five cooperatives and three Tribal communities. Sixteen of those applied for projects in more than one location.
The total amount requested is more than $719 million. OBAE will review applications and award grants from the $675 allocated by the federal government.
The applications targeted 144 unserved “project areas” in 31 New Mexico counties for connectivity via terrestrial technology. BEAD funding is expected to provide high-speed broadband to more than 31,000 unserved homes, businesses, farms and other locations across the state.
“We are very excited by the number of applications and qualified candidates for this massive broadband infrastructure program,” said Drew Lovelace, acting director of OBAE. “This monumental program will help close the digital divide in our state, providing high-speed connectivity for broadband-dry households and communities. These projects will change lives.”
OBAE will recommend the grant awards to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) by the end of July. Once the federal government approves the suggested projects, construction will begin. All projects must be completed within four years.
Both NTIA and OBAE must approve the 66 BEAD applications.
The 18 entities have applied for:
The 66 applications included:
“I am grateful for the hard work our broadband team has put into this tremendous effort and want to thank all the stakeholders that applied for these important projects,” said Lovelace.
In 2023 NTIA allocated $675 million to the state to award grants for broadband infrastructure deployment.
Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities were eligible to apply for BEAD funding. Before the BEAD application process could begin, NTIA had to approve OBAE’s broadband infrastructure proposals, request for planning funds application, project challenge processes, project rebuttals, a Final Proposal and other federal requirements.
All BEAD applicants had to submit Prequalification Applications to apply for funding. Those results helped OBAE determine whether an entity had the technical capability and financial stability to deploy broadband and meet federal and state requirements.
New Mexico was one of the first states to begin accepting BEAD applications.
“These projects are a huge undertaking and may take time, but OBAE wants broadband built quickly and efficiently. Connecting New Mexican homes and businesses is our top priority,” said Andrew Wilder, BEAD coordinator of OBAE.
The grants are part of the $42.5 billion national BEAD program. NTIA has allocated funding to all 50 states and territories.
Entities competing for BEAD funding include 10 internet service providers, five cooperatives and three Tribal communities. Sixteen of those applied for projects in more than one location.
The total amount requested is more than $719 million. OBAE will review applications and award grants from the $675 allocated by the federal government.
The applications targeted 144 unserved “project areas” in 31 New Mexico counties for connectivity via terrestrial technology. BEAD funding is expected to provide high-speed broadband to more than 31,000 unserved homes, businesses, farms and other locations across the state.
“We are very excited by the number of applications and qualified candidates for this massive broadband infrastructure program,” said Drew Lovelace, acting director of OBAE. “This monumental program will help close the digital divide in our state, providing high-speed connectivity for broadband-dry households and communities. These projects will change lives.”
OBAE will recommend the grant awards to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) by the end of July. Once the federal government approves the suggested projects, construction will begin. All projects must be completed within four years.
Both NTIA and OBAE must approve the 66 BEAD applications.
The 18 entities have applied for:
- 53 full-fiber projects
- 12 fixed wireless projects
- One low earth orbit satellite project
The 66 applications included:
- Total funding requested: $719,075,257
- Total matching funds proposed: $258,179,539
- Total proposed budgets: $976,167,932
“I am grateful for the hard work our broadband team has put into this tremendous effort and want to thank all the stakeholders that applied for these important projects,” said Lovelace.
In 2023 NTIA allocated $675 million to the state to award grants for broadband infrastructure deployment.
Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities were eligible to apply for BEAD funding. Before the BEAD application process could begin, NTIA had to approve OBAE’s broadband infrastructure proposals, request for planning funds application, project challenge processes, project rebuttals, a Final Proposal and other federal requirements.
All BEAD applicants had to submit Prequalification Applications to apply for funding. Those results helped OBAE determine whether an entity had the technical capability and financial stability to deploy broadband and meet federal and state requirements.
New Mexico was one of the first states to begin accepting BEAD applications.
“These projects are a huge undertaking and may take time, but OBAE wants broadband built quickly and efficiently. Connecting New Mexican homes and businesses is our top priority,” said Andrew Wilder, BEAD coordinator of OBAE.
The grants are part of the $42.5 billion national BEAD program. NTIA has allocated funding to all 50 states and territories.
OBAE Publishes Preapproval Updated Challenge Process Results
02/24/2025
02/24/2025
OBAE is pleased to share the latest results of the Challenge Process, which identifies the locations eligible for BEAD funding in New Mexico. While this data has not yet been formally approved by NTIA due to the changeover in leadership at the NTIA and U.S. Commerce Department, we do not expect any further changes to the data. This data takes into account several new enforceable commitments and defaults, mapping corrections to several TBCP Round One awards, and enforceable commitments that lacked Tribal consent.
NM BEAD Application Deadline Extended for $675 Million in Broadband Grants
02/24/2025
The Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) has announced that it's extending the application submission deadline for Round 1 of the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program to March 24, 2025, at 11:59pm MST.
The extension comes as a result of ongoing delays from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approving OBAE's updated Challenge Process results.
Today OBAE is also pleased to share the latest results of the Challenge Process, which identifies the locations eligible for BEAD funding in New Mexico. While this data has not yet been formally approved by NTIA due to the changeover in leadership at the NTIA and U.S. Commerce Department, we do not expect any further changes to the data. This data takes into account several new enforceable commitments and defaults, mapping corrections to several TBCP Round One awards, and enforceable commitments that lacked Tribal consent.
The list of eligible locations for BEAD funding is available for download here. Changes between the updated data and the previous version are highlighted.
OBAE would like to remind all stakeholders and others that OBAE hosts Office Hours for the BEAD program every Wednesday at 9am MST. BEAD Coordinator Andrew Wilder is available at to answer application questions and to facilitate discussion about all things BEAD in New Mexico. Office Hours information can be found here.
At present more than 30 entities are preparing applications for BEAD projects in the state’s largest funding program for broadband infrastructure.
The state will be awarding $675 million in grants, and the BEAD program will help connect more than 31,000 unserved locations in the state. Fiber connectivity is a priority under the BEAD program, but other broadband technologies may be considered depending on location, terrain, costs and other factors.
Grants will be awarded in all parts of New Mexico. Local governments, tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities are eligible to apply for BEAD funding.
For more information about BEAD, CLICK HERE.
The extension comes as a result of ongoing delays from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approving OBAE's updated Challenge Process results.
Today OBAE is also pleased to share the latest results of the Challenge Process, which identifies the locations eligible for BEAD funding in New Mexico. While this data has not yet been formally approved by NTIA due to the changeover in leadership at the NTIA and U.S. Commerce Department, we do not expect any further changes to the data. This data takes into account several new enforceable commitments and defaults, mapping corrections to several TBCP Round One awards, and enforceable commitments that lacked Tribal consent.
The list of eligible locations for BEAD funding is available for download here. Changes between the updated data and the previous version are highlighted.
OBAE would like to remind all stakeholders and others that OBAE hosts Office Hours for the BEAD program every Wednesday at 9am MST. BEAD Coordinator Andrew Wilder is available at to answer application questions and to facilitate discussion about all things BEAD in New Mexico. Office Hours information can be found here.
At present more than 30 entities are preparing applications for BEAD projects in the state’s largest funding program for broadband infrastructure.
The state will be awarding $675 million in grants, and the BEAD program will help connect more than 31,000 unserved locations in the state. Fiber connectivity is a priority under the BEAD program, but other broadband technologies may be considered depending on location, terrain, costs and other factors.
Grants will be awarded in all parts of New Mexico. Local governments, tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities are eligible to apply for BEAD funding.
For more information about BEAD, CLICK HERE.
Due to the White House memo pausing federal grants, OBAE is canceling BEAD Office Hours on Wednesday, 1/29/2025, pending review of the memo and further guidance from NTIA and the White House. The BEAD application portal will remain open for applicants while this review in ongoing.
01/28/2025
A message from the office of Gov. Lujan Grisham:
"Gov. Lujan Grisham is actively coordinating with the Attorney General's office, state lawmakers, the New Mexico congressional delegation and officials in other states regarding President Trump’s executive orders and other actions in recent days. The governor and her cabinet secretaries are thoroughly reviewing these orders and their implications for our state. Our initial assessment indicates serious constitutional concerns that require immediate attention.
The governor understands that these developments may cause uncertainty and anxiety. She wants New Mexicans to know that she is committed to advocating for them and protecting their interests. The Governor’s Office will provide a more detailed response and outline next steps in the very near future."
01/28/2025
A message from the office of Gov. Lujan Grisham:
"Gov. Lujan Grisham is actively coordinating with the Attorney General's office, state lawmakers, the New Mexico congressional delegation and officials in other states regarding President Trump’s executive orders and other actions in recent days. The governor and her cabinet secretaries are thoroughly reviewing these orders and their implications for our state. Our initial assessment indicates serious constitutional concerns that require immediate attention.
The governor understands that these developments may cause uncertainty and anxiety. She wants New Mexicans to know that she is committed to advocating for them and protecting their interests. The Governor’s Office will provide a more detailed response and outline next steps in the very near future."
Update to BEAD-eligible BSLs; OBAE Extends Deadline for Round One BEAD Applications
01/13/2025
01/13/2025
Since the conclusion of the Challenge Process, the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) has issued several grants under the Connect New Mexico Fund and identified other new enforceable commitments, enforceable commitments that have defaulted, and enforceable commitments lacking Tribal consent. Those enforceable commitments are listed in the attached spreadsheet.
Following guidance from NTIA, OBAE initially deduplicated this new grant information from the Challenge Process results before opening the BEAD application portal. The updated Broadband Serviceable Location (BSL) list was published on January 3, coinciding with the portal’s launch.
However, on January 3, NTIA changed their guidance and directed OBAE to resubmit the Challenge Process results, incorporating the new grant information, for further review and approval. OBAE is complying with this guidance, and accordingly we want to inform applicants that the current BSL list remains provisional. We encourage BEAD applicants to continue preparing their applications, especially those applicants applying to regions not impacted by any of the listed enforceable commitments. We will continue to share updates and will publish the final, approved BSLs for BEAD as soon as NTIA approves them.
Given this development, OBAE is extending the submission deadline for Round One of the NM BEAD program to Monday, March 3, 2025.
Following guidance from NTIA, OBAE initially deduplicated this new grant information from the Challenge Process results before opening the BEAD application portal. The updated Broadband Serviceable Location (BSL) list was published on January 3, coinciding with the portal’s launch.
However, on January 3, NTIA changed their guidance and directed OBAE to resubmit the Challenge Process results, incorporating the new grant information, for further review and approval. OBAE is complying with this guidance, and accordingly we want to inform applicants that the current BSL list remains provisional. We encourage BEAD applicants to continue preparing their applications, especially those applicants applying to regions not impacted by any of the listed enforceable commitments. We will continue to share updates and will publish the final, approved BSLs for BEAD as soon as NTIA approves them.
Given this development, OBAE is extending the submission deadline for Round One of the NM BEAD program to Monday, March 3, 2025.
NTIA Approves NM Challenge Process Results
OBAE Publishes Final Project Area Units
12/13/2024
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NTIA has approved the results of the New Mexico BEAD Challenge Process, enabling OBAE to publish the post-challenge BSL data and the final Project Area Units (PAUs) for BEAD.
The Challenge Process results will soon be published on the Challenge Portal and OBAE Mapping & Data Hub. Post-challenge BSLs may be downloaded by clicking the button to the left. However, in the time since the Challenge Process has ended, OBAE has issued several grants under the Connect New Mexico Fund and has been made aware of other new enforceable commitments and defaults. OBAE is currently in the process of deduplicating the Challenge Process Results using this new grant information. Once this step is complete, OBAE will publish the final map of BEAD-eligible locations to the Mapping & Data Hub and make the final BEAD-eligible BSL data available for download. Additionally, OBAE is publishing the final Project Area Units (PAUs) for BEAD. The final PAUs come after OBAE made extensive changes based on responses to the Request for Comment on the draft PAUs. The result is a greater number of PAUs that better reflect existing network infrastructure. You can view or download the final map of PAUs on the OBAE Mapping & Data Hub. |
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BEAD NOFO Published
12/06/2024
OBAE has released the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and application for the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. This marks the next step in the distribution of $675 million in federal funding to award state-issued grants for broadband infrastructure across the state.
With the release of the NOFO, prequalified applicants can now begin preparing their formal applications for BEAD funding. OBAE tentatively plans to begin accepting applications in early January 2025 and will release additional supplementary materials in the coming weeks, pending NTIA approval.
The NOFO sets forth the policies and procedures OBAE will follow to select recipients of BEAD funding from among the pool of prequalified applicants. Only prequalified applicants are eligible to apply for BEAD funding. OBAE has been accepting Prequalification Applications since September 16, 2024, and those applications close November 15, 2024, at 11:59pm.
Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities that were successfully prequalified are eligible to apply for BEAD funding.
12/06/2024
OBAE has released the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and application for the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. This marks the next step in the distribution of $675 million in federal funding to award state-issued grants for broadband infrastructure across the state.
With the release of the NOFO, prequalified applicants can now begin preparing their formal applications for BEAD funding. OBAE tentatively plans to begin accepting applications in early January 2025 and will release additional supplementary materials in the coming weeks, pending NTIA approval.
The NOFO sets forth the policies and procedures OBAE will follow to select recipients of BEAD funding from among the pool of prequalified applicants. Only prequalified applicants are eligible to apply for BEAD funding. OBAE has been accepting Prequalification Applications since September 16, 2024, and those applications close November 15, 2024, at 11:59pm.
Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities that were successfully prequalified are eligible to apply for BEAD funding.
Reminder - Deadline a Week Away to Submit BEAD Prequalification Applications
11/08/2024
Time is running out! If you intend to apply for broadband deployment funding through the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, you have just a week. The deadline to submit Prequalification Applications is next Friday, November 15.Prospective applicants must submit a Prequalification Application to apply for BEAD funding. For more information about BEAD, state and federal requirements and the prequalification process, CLICK HERE. New Mexico was allocated $675 million for the BEAD program. OBAE also tentatively plans to release funding information and application materials on November 15 and to begin accepting applications in early 2025. Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities are eligible to apply for BEAD funding. BEAD is the state’s largest funding program to deploy broadband infrastructure. These Prequalification Applications will help the state determine whether an entity has the technical capability and financial stability to deploy broadband and meet federal and state requirements. OBAE will decide whether an entity can move forward with a formal application by using the following criteria:
Financial capabilities
Managerial capabilities Technical capabilities
Legal and regulatory compliance Operational capabilities Ownership
Stewardship of other public funding
Once Prequalification Applications are evaluated and approved, entities will then formally apply for their suggested broadband projects based on broadband-dry areas. Both the state and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration must approve the final applications.
If you have any questions, please contact OBAE at: [email protected]
11/08/2024
Time is running out! If you intend to apply for broadband deployment funding through the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, you have just a week. The deadline to submit Prequalification Applications is next Friday, November 15.Prospective applicants must submit a Prequalification Application to apply for BEAD funding. For more information about BEAD, state and federal requirements and the prequalification process, CLICK HERE. New Mexico was allocated $675 million for the BEAD program. OBAE also tentatively plans to release funding information and application materials on November 15 and to begin accepting applications in early 2025. Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities are eligible to apply for BEAD funding. BEAD is the state’s largest funding program to deploy broadband infrastructure. These Prequalification Applications will help the state determine whether an entity has the technical capability and financial stability to deploy broadband and meet federal and state requirements. OBAE will decide whether an entity can move forward with a formal application by using the following criteria:
Financial capabilities
Managerial capabilities Technical capabilities
Legal and regulatory compliance Operational capabilities Ownership
Stewardship of other public funding
Once Prequalification Applications are evaluated and approved, entities will then formally apply for their suggested broadband projects based on broadband-dry areas. Both the state and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration must approve the final applications.
If you have any questions, please contact OBAE at: [email protected]
BEAD Prequalification Deadline Extended to November 15
10/24/2024
OBAE has extended the deadline to submit Prequalification Applications to November 15.The original deadline was November 1. OBAE has decided to allow more time to apply for Prequalification Applications because it’s still finalizing the list of eligible serviceable locations for broadband with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). That process will help ensure that other federal funding programs are accurately accounted for to avoid duplication of funding and to make sure that unserved and underserved areas are not miscategorized. An underserved location is one that does not have access to broadband speeds of at least 100Mbps download and 20 Mbps uploads.
OBAE tentatively plans to release funding information and application materials on November 15 and to begin accepting applications in early 2025.
Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities are eligible to apply for BEAD funding. BEAD is the state’s largest funding program to deploy broadband infrastructure.
The state was allocated $675 million for the BEAD program.
Prospective applicants must submit a Prequalification Application to apply for BEAD funding.
These Prequalification Applications will help the state determine whether an entity has the technical capability and financial stability to deploy broadband and meet federal and state requirements.
OBAE will decide whether an entity can move forward with a formal application by using the following criteria:
For more information about BEAD, state and federal requirements and the prequalification process, CLICK HERE. If you have any questions, please contact OBAE at: [email protected]
10/24/2024
OBAE has extended the deadline to submit Prequalification Applications to November 15.The original deadline was November 1. OBAE has decided to allow more time to apply for Prequalification Applications because it’s still finalizing the list of eligible serviceable locations for broadband with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). That process will help ensure that other federal funding programs are accurately accounted for to avoid duplication of funding and to make sure that unserved and underserved areas are not miscategorized. An underserved location is one that does not have access to broadband speeds of at least 100Mbps download and 20 Mbps uploads.
OBAE tentatively plans to release funding information and application materials on November 15 and to begin accepting applications in early 2025.
Local governments, Tribal communities, nonprofits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities are eligible to apply for BEAD funding. BEAD is the state’s largest funding program to deploy broadband infrastructure.
The state was allocated $675 million for the BEAD program.
Prospective applicants must submit a Prequalification Application to apply for BEAD funding.
These Prequalification Applications will help the state determine whether an entity has the technical capability and financial stability to deploy broadband and meet federal and state requirements.
OBAE will decide whether an entity can move forward with a formal application by using the following criteria:
- Financial capabilities
- Managerial capabilities Technical capabilities
- Legal and regulatory compliance Operational capabilities Ownership
- Stewardship of other public funding
For more information about BEAD, state and federal requirements and the prequalification process, CLICK HERE. If you have any questions, please contact OBAE at: [email protected]
The BEAD Prequalification Submission Window opens September 16!
OBAE will conduct a BEAD Prequalification webinar on Monday, September 16 from 11-12pm MST.
9/11/2024
The Priority Deadline to submit a BEAD Prequalification Application is October 14 at 11:59pm. Applications submitted by the Priority Deadline will receive an accelerated review process and completed applications will receive a decision by November 1. The Final Deadline to submit is November 1 at 11:59pm. OBAE will conduct a BEAD Prequalification webinar on Monday, September 16 from 11-12pm MST. This webinar is intended for prospective applicants of the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion's BEAD Program. The agenda will provide an overview of the BEAD Program, an explanation the Prequalification process, instructions for how to submit a Prequalification application, and will allow time for questions. Click here to register
OBAE will conduct a BEAD Prequalification webinar on Monday, September 16 from 11-12pm MST.
9/11/2024
The Priority Deadline to submit a BEAD Prequalification Application is October 14 at 11:59pm. Applications submitted by the Priority Deadline will receive an accelerated review process and completed applications will receive a decision by November 1. The Final Deadline to submit is November 1 at 11:59pm. OBAE will conduct a BEAD Prequalification webinar on Monday, September 16 from 11-12pm MST. This webinar is intended for prospective applicants of the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion's BEAD Program. The agenda will provide an overview of the BEAD Program, an explanation the Prequalification process, instructions for how to submit a Prequalification application, and will allow time for questions. Click here to register
09/01/2024 BEAD Prequalification Application available September 1
In another step forward in the BEAD Program, OBAE has published the first version of the BEAD Prequalification Application in advance of opening the Prequalification submission window. This process enables prospective applicants to establish their qualifications and capabilities to plan, finance, deploy, and maintain broadband networks while driving commercial success and adhering to all legal and regulatory requirements. OBAE aims to prequalify prospective applicants in advance of accepting applications later this year.
BEAD Prequalification Application - version 1.0 -Link
In another step forward in the BEAD Program, OBAE has published the first version of the BEAD Prequalification Application in advance of opening the Prequalification submission window. This process enables prospective applicants to establish their qualifications and capabilities to plan, finance, deploy, and maintain broadband networks while driving commercial success and adhering to all legal and regulatory requirements. OBAE aims to prequalify prospective applicants in advance of accepting applications later this year.
BEAD Prequalification Application - version 1.0 -Link
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08/23/2024 PAU Public Comment Period CLOSES September 30, 2024 The Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) has announced that it will seek public comments from September 1 to September 30, 2024, in the next step of the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. The public comments will center on draft Project Area Units (PAU), regions across the state for which stakeholders will bid for BEAD funding for broadband projects. PAUs were designed using existing administrative boundaries, including Tribal lands, school districts, census blocks and tracts, and high-cost areas defined by NTIA. Office Hours: Project Area Units (PAU) Request for Comment Office Hours include:
If you have any questions, please contact OBAE at [email protected]. |
Link to Draft of PAUs Link to Submission Portal Webinar: BEAD Project Area Units Request for Comment Friday, 8/30/24 10am-11am Slide Deck Link View Recording |
07/26/2024 NM Initial Proposal Volume II Approved!
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved New Mexico's Initial Proposal Volume II. This clears the way for the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) to begin the grant application process under the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. Local governments, Tribal communities, non-profits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities will soon be eligible for grants to deploy infrastructure projects across the state. The grants would be financed with $675 million being made available to New Mexico through the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved New Mexico's Initial Proposal Volume II. This clears the way for the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) to begin the grant application process under the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. Local governments, Tribal communities, non-profits, internet service providers, cooperatives and other entities will soon be eligible for grants to deploy infrastructure projects across the state. The grants would be financed with $675 million being made available to New Mexico through the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
05/17/2024
OBAE delayed the start of the Rebuttal Phase until June 3rd. The Rebuttal Phase ran from June 3rd-July 3rd and the Final Determination Phase will ran from July 4th-August 3rd. Additionally, OBAE extended the period of time when eligible challengers could submit revisions to their challenges to ensure ample time to respond if asked to do so by OBAE. Revisions could be submitted until 11:59pm on Wednesday, May 29th.
PLEASE NOTE: OBAE has received new guidance from NTIA regarding making challenges on the grounds that there is a lack of Tribal consent. Lack of tribal consent is only grounds for a challenge when the BSLs being challenged are in the unbuilt portion of an enforceable commitment under a government funding program. Deployed networks cannot be challenged on the grounds of lack of tribal consent regardless of whether the deployment was supported by a government program or not.
OBAE delayed the start of the Rebuttal Phase until June 3rd. The Rebuttal Phase ran from June 3rd-July 3rd and the Final Determination Phase will ran from July 4th-August 3rd. Additionally, OBAE extended the period of time when eligible challengers could submit revisions to their challenges to ensure ample time to respond if asked to do so by OBAE. Revisions could be submitted until 11:59pm on Wednesday, May 29th.
PLEASE NOTE: OBAE has received new guidance from NTIA regarding making challenges on the grounds that there is a lack of Tribal consent. Lack of tribal consent is only grounds for a challenge when the BSLs being challenged are in the unbuilt portion of an enforceable commitment under a government funding program. Deployed networks cannot be challenged on the grounds of lack of tribal consent regardless of whether the deployment was supported by a government program or not.
04/17/2024
Due to technical difficulties, OBAE was unable to open the Challenge portal on April 17th as scheduled. In the interest of fairness to all concerned, OBAE opened the Challenge Portal April 18th. The Challenge Phase extended until May 18th to allow the full 30-day process to occur as planned. re will be no change to the Rebuttal or Final Determination Phases at this time.
Due to technical difficulties, OBAE was unable to open the Challenge portal on April 17th as scheduled. In the interest of fairness to all concerned, OBAE opened the Challenge Portal April 18th. The Challenge Phase extended until May 18th to allow the full 30-day process to occur as planned. re will be no change to the Rebuttal or Final Determination Phases at this time.
BEAD Press Releases ARCHIVE
Press Release Archive
Download BEAD Press Releases 2025:
Download BEAD Press Releases 2025:
- Press Release State submits $675 million broadband infrastructure plan 9/4/2025
- Press Release State seeks public comment on massive federal broadband deployment proposal 8/26/2025
- Press Release BEAD Program Receives More Than 40 New Applications 7/28/2025
- Press Release Broadband Office Notifying Providers About New Federal Rules 7/2/2025
- Press Release Applications submitted for $675 million broadband grant program 3/27/2025
- Press Release Applications Begin for $675 Million in Broadband Grants 1/3/2025
Download Press Releases 2024:
07/26/2024 Biden-Harris Administration Approves New Mexico and Virginia’s “Internet for All” Initial Proposal
07/26/2024: NM Initial Proposal Volume II Approved!
06/ 26/2023 Press Release: Biden Administration awards more than $675 million to New Mexico to expand broadband access statewide.
Press Highlight: 08/02/2024 KKOB’s Bob Clark interview with Acting Director Drew Lovelace
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“We believe New Mexico has the best mix of technologies of any state’s BEAD program,” said Andrew Wilder, OBAE’s BEAD Coordinator. OBAE awarded 44% of eligible locations to fiber, 40% to fixed wireless projects, and 16% to low Earth orbit satellite. “We took 'tech neutrality' to heart,” said Wilder. “We chose the right tool for the job to connect every corner of our state."
The state’s BEAD proposal will be a dramatic life changer for New Mexico’s Tribal communities. The Navajo Nation is poised to receive a $111 million award, the largest single project supported by OBAE. “What an extraordinary time for the Navajo Nation and the Navajo people,” said Sonia Nez, manager of the Navajo Nation Broadband Office. “Connectivity and mobility have risen to being on par with water, and Water is life. Thank you to OBAE and the Connect Dine team for empowering the Navajo people, through BEAD, to take advantage of broadband opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, art and music and to help our elderly and veterans.” OBAE’s Final Proposal also demonstrates balance, ensuring a fair and transparent process so that small, local providers can participate. Several local entities were provided grants. Rural electric and telephone cooperatives also stepped up to the plate to connect New Mexicans, and a handful of them will receive BEAD dollars. Five companies that make up the New Mexico Exchange Carrier Group were also awarded BEAD grants. “We congratulate OBAE and commend the Office’s strong commitment to bridging the digital divide and look forward to continued collaboration,” said Matejka Santillanes, Executive Director of the New Mexico Exchange Carrier Group. “This vital funding will help our providers continue expanding high-speed internet access, unlocking economic opportunities and improving quality of life in New Mexico’s rural and underserved communities.” The low cost per location is another testament to OBAE’s strong Final Proposal. The latest round of bidding resulted in an average cost per location of $10,162, about one-third of the cost in the first application round. In that round, which ended in March 2025, OBAE received a total of $732 million in grant requests, which exceeded its total BEAD allocation of $675 million. The earlier bids would have resulted in a statewide average cost of nearly $27,000 per location. At the time, some broadband project requests came in at more than $100,000 per location. As a result of this latest Benefit of the Bargain Round in July and the Final Proposal, New Mexico is preliminarily awarding $432,729,878 to serve just over 43,000 unserved and underserved households and small businesses. The average cost to serve every serviceable location is $10,162. With the final proposed deployment cost of $432.7 million, OBAE proposes to use the remaining BEAD funds for other eligible activities under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including support for community anchor institutions, tower deployments for 5G wireless, and middle mile network infrastructure across the state. New Mexico received $675 million which represents part of the $42.5 billion BEAD program funding passed by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and allocated across all 50 states and six territories to connect unserved and underserved locations nationwide. |
