NM to invest US$123 million to boost broadband services in the state

NEW MEXICO – The New Mexico government launched a broadband grant program that will leverage $123 million in funding for the state’s largest broadband expansion effort.

The Connect New Mexico Pilot Program will award grants to cover up to 75 percent of total network expansion project costs in underserved and unserved areas of the state.

“Broadband is an essential element of a modern, efficient and effective infrastructure system. The Connect New Mexico program opens an exciting new chapter in broadband infrastructure investment and digital equity collaboration across the state, investing millions and millions of dollars to provide quality, affordable broadband service,” said Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

The initiative is designed as a precursor to the Connect New Mexico Broadband Grant Program, established in 2021 and currently subject to administrative rulemaking as required by law. At least $70 million in additional state funding will be available for the next round of investment, scheduled for 2023.

Together, the Connect New Mexico programs will deliver nearly $200 million in broadband expansion grants over the next several years, building on state investments in broadband development made throughout the Lujan Grisham administration.

The New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) formally opening its Connect New Mexico Pilot Program.

Applications for the program will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis in three waves. This format recognizes that some entities are more prepared to submit a strong proposal in the short term, while others may need more time. The closing dates for the three phases are September 23, December 9 and February 27, 2023.