B.E.A.D. Subgrant Portal – CNMI Broadband Policy & Development

B.E.A.D. Subgrant Portal Resources

subgrant agreement

Notice: The BEAD Portal is now closed as of June 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM ChST.
Please stay tuned for the upcoming “Benefit of the Bargain” round opening soon.

This Subgrant Agreement between the CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office (BPD) and a selected Subgrantee sets out the terms for funding, deploying, and operating broadband infrastructure in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands using federal BEAD Program funds. The Subgrantee is required to install and provide high-speed, reliable broadband service to unserved and underserved locations, as well as eligible community anchor institutions, in accordance with technical, financial, and regulatory standards outlined in the Agreement and its exhibits. The project must comply with federal, CNMI, and local laws; meet minimum speed and affordability standards; undergo environmental and labor reviews; satisfy detailed reporting and performance milestones; and ensure public awareness and equitable service delivery. The Subgrantee must also participate in affordability programs (such as the Affordable Connectivity Program), maintain strong cybersecurity practices, and offer a low-cost broadband service option.

The Agreement includes strict compliance, documentation, and monitoring requirements. Grant funds are provided on a reimbursement or milestone basis, subject to matching fund commitments from the Subgrantee. Construction cannot begin until all required permits, environmental reviews, and financial assurances (such as a letter of credit or bond) are in place. BPD retains broad enforcement powers in case of default or non-compliance, including the right to terminate the agreement, recover funds, or require corrective action. Certain obligations—like maintaining service, affordability options, and property management—extend for up to ten years after project closeout. The Agreement prioritizes transparency, accountability, and alignment with BEAD Program goals to achieve universal broadband coverage and digital equity in CNMI.

public notice: unlicensed fixed wireless

The CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office has released a Public Notice in response to recent federal updates outlined in the BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice issued on June 6, 2025. This notice informs Unlicensed Fixed Wireless (ULFW) providers that they have until Friday, June 22, 2025, to submit a new notice of intent and supporting documentation for any locations they claim to serve. Providers must meet updated technical standards in order to remove those locations from BEAD funding eligibility. Full details can be found in the document linked below.