Arkansas Get Internet
As part of a multibillion-dollar national grant program, federal officials have set aside over $1 billion for high-speed internet services in Arkansas.
"It's the biggest investment in high-speed internet ever,"
Because internet access is equally important for the modern economy to function for everyone.
Broadband, Equity, Access & Deployment
BEAD
The State of Arkansas received over $1 billion in funding from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program to build and modernize broadband networks as well as to expand opportunities and digital skills for our state's citizens.
Internet connection
These days, it seems like internet access has an impact on every part of our everyday lives. Health, commerce, entertainment, and education.
High-speed internet is now absolutely necessary and is no longer considered a luxury.
Equity & Accessibility.
Funding will be used by states to upgrade or roll out existing networks or provide broadband services. Any money that is left over can be used to solve issues with equity and accessibility.
Digital Skills & Opportunity
Numerous distinct survey responses were received by the state, and the outcomes will have an immediate influence on the state's BEAD and Digital Opportunity planning.
Arkansas's
Five-Year Plan
On August 28, 2023, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce received the state's Five-Year Action Plan from the Arkansas State Broadband Office (ARConnect). This plan serves as a framework for Arkansas' upcoming BEAD Initial Proposal and offers a general overview of how the state intends to eradicate the digital divide in the state by 2028. The Five-Year Action Plan analyzes the state's current broadband resources and digital opportunity programming, as well as how funding from the BEAD program can close any gaps that may be present.