RFP-BEAD State Challenge Process Assistance

The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation is seeking proposals from qualified non-profit organizations to assist local and tribal governments in participating in the state challenge process related to broadband service availability. This process is part of the state's compliance with the NTIA’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, which aims to verify and improve the accuracy of the Rhode Island Broadband Map before infrastructure investments are made. The Corporation has developed a challenge portal that allows local governments, tribal entities, nonprofits, and Internet Service Providers to submit and rebut challenges concerning broadband service locations and the eligibility of Community Anchor Institutions. The selected non-profit entity will play a crucial role in supporting these entities by reviewing, consolidating, and submitting challenge data to ensure the accuracy of broadband mapping and deployment efforts. The solicitation, titled "RFP-BEAD State Challenge Process Assistance," was posted on January 24, 2024, with a response deadline of February 7, 2024. It is a formal procurement opportunity under NAICS code 517919, targeting organizations within the State, Local, Education, and Healthcare (SLED) sector. The contract aims to facilitate the accurate identification of broadband serviceable locations, ultimately supporting Rhode Island’s efforts to expand broadband access. Interested organizations can find additional details and submit their proposals through the Rhode Island purchasing portal.