The Deployment Phase allows qualified applicants to apply for funding to complete infrastructure projects for the remaining underserved or unserved BSLs across Massachusetts. The Phase is anticipated to launch on January 8, 2025.

The following entities are eligible to apply for funding through the Deployment Phase:

• Private entities (e.g. corporations, limited liability companies, general partnerships, limited partnerships, etc.);
• Local government entities (e.g. municipalities or municipal light plants that offer broadband service), tribal governments and non-profit organizations Co-operatives, electric co-operatives and utilities;
• Public private partnerships, which are the long-term agreements between local government entities and private entities for the delivery and funding of broadband services; and 
• Other entities that develop and/or operate broadband networks and can demonstrate the experience, capacity and financial resources and stability to satisfy the grant obligations.

Entities anticipating applying for funding in the Deployment Phase must have already completed the Pre-Qualification Process. Those who did not complete or pass the Pre-Qualification Process must submit their qualifications prior to completing the full program application.

BEAD Deployment Eligibility List     Massachusetts Broadband Map

BEAD Pre-Qualification Process

Prior to the opening of the Deployment Phase, MBI administered a Pre-Qualification Process for the BEAD Program. The Pre-Qualification Process was open from September 26, 2024 until October 28, 2024. This process strongly encouraged interested BEAD applicants to pre-qualify for grant eligibility through the Deployment Phase by supporting the review and approval of subgrantee applications to certify that potential applicants meet necessary qualification requirements.