CAIs are organizations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, typically serve vulnerable populations and play a significant role in a community's economic, social, and civic life.

The following categories of CAIs are eligible for funding via the Gap Networks and/or BEAD Programs:

• Career Centers
• Community Centers
• Community Health Centers
• Community Media Centers
• Correctional Facilities*
• Councils on Aging / Senior Centers
• Courthouses
• Coworking Centers
• Food Banks
• Health Clinics
• Healthcare Facilities (excluding standalone single or multiple physician medical offices)
• Homeless Shelters
• Libraries
• Long-Term Care Facilities
• Places of Worship
• Public Housing (excluding locations receiving support through MBI’s Residential Retrofit Program)
• Schools (Pre-K, K-12, Trade Schools, Vocational Schools and Adult Education)
• Small Business Technical Assistance Centers
• Town Halls or City Halls
• Veterans Centers

*Ineligible for BEAD funding 

The following table outlines the features of the Gap Networks Program Round 3 solicitation and the BEAD Benefit of the Bargain (B.O.B) solicitation and highlights key distinctions. ISPs may apply to serve CAIs under both funding sources. However, an ISP cannot apply to serve the same CAI under applications to both programs. ISPs that prioritize CAIs under Gap Networks will be given preference upon MBI’s application review process. 

The Gap Networks Program Round 3 solicitation and the BEAD Benefit of the Bargain solicitation follow identical timelines.  

Applicants will be required to submit budgets on a per CAI basis for both programs. If an ISP is interested in applying for both broadband serviceable locations (BSLs) and CAIs within the BEAD Benefit of the Bargain, they must break out budgets for BSLs (by Project Service Area) and CAIs (by individual CAI) in a manner that accurately represents costs for each.

Eligible entities are highly encouraged to review the solicitation documents and associated webpages for each procurement before submitting an application. Webpages include relevant documents and templates.

[Button: Gap Round 3 Solicitation Page] [Button: BEAD B.O.B. Solicitation Page]

Community anchor institutions (CAI) are not required to take any action to support provider applications. Funding decisions will be made solely by MBI based on stated program criteria and priority. MBI will communicate awards to ISPs and the public later this year, per the timetable above. If you represent a CAI that requires new or enhanced internet service, contact your local Internet Service Provider to suggest these programs.