The Virgin Islands Broadband Office (VIBO) has launched Phase One of the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Grant Challenge Portal, inviting community input on improving internet access across the territory. The portal will be open from Dec. 1 to Dec. 30 and can be accessed at vibo.vi.gov.
What is the Challenge Portal?
The Challenge Portal is an online tool where nonprofit organizations, local governments, and broadband service providers can review and give feedback on the list of underserved Community Anchor Institutions (CAIs). These institutions include schools, community centers, public housing complexes, hospitals, and other critical facilities identified in VIBO’s grant proposal.
An institution is considered underserved if it has internet speeds below 100 megabits per second (Mbps) for downloads and 20 Mbps for uploads. Feedback from the Challenge Portal will help ensure federal funding from the BEAD program is targeted where it’s needed most.
Why Community Input Matters
This $27 million federal grant has the potential to transform digital access in the Virgin Islands. While the funding cannot be used to build broadband infrastructure, it will support programs that make broadband more affordable, improve digital literacy, and expand workforce development in a growing digital economy.
Community participation is vital. VIBO encourages residents to collaborate with local nonprofits or government agencies to submit challenges and ensure all voices are heard in shaping the future of broadband equity in the territory.
Next Steps for the BEAD Program
Once the challenge process is complete, VIBO will move forward with funding opportunities for eligible programs. Informational webinars will also be held to guide applicants through the subgrantee selection process. Visit vibo.vi.gov for updates and additional details and to participate in the Challenge Portal.
