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NEW Program: Working Internet ASAP

The Working Internet ASAP Program provides a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet access option for eligible remote and rural locations in Maine. These homes and businesses are extremely difficult to reach and currently have no service or technology option. Enrollment for the program will open mid-November of this year. Learn more here.

High-speed Broadband for Maine

The Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) is committed to expanding access to reliable, high-speed and affordable internet service statewide.

MCA has three primary goals:

Expand effective, accessible connectivity in every part of the state;
Support the creation of secure, affordable, reliable, competitive, sustainable and forward-looking internet infrastructure that can meet future needs; and
Ensure that all residents, businesses and institutions in Maine be able to take full advantage of the economic, health, educational and other opportunities available through connectivity services.

Focusing on projects, places and people, the MCA is advancing digital equity for all Mainers. Established in 2021, MCA is a quasi-governmental agency charged with achieving universal access to affordable high-speed broadband in Maine.

Next in BEAD: Project Application phase

Phase 1: Prospective Applicant Pre-Qualification Evaluation

(September 18 - October 18, 2024)

Prospective applicants will submit organizational-level information (technical, financial, operational and managerial capacity) that demonstrates their ability to meet the requirements of the BEAD program.
Applicants will also be presented with a map of draft Project Service Areas (PSAs) and asked to indicate which they intend to apply for. Learn more about PSAs below.

Phase 2: BEAD Project Application

(Winter 2024)

Prospective Applicants approved in Phase 1 will be invited to submit project applications for BEAD funding.
Applicants will provide project-level information, including a bid for specific Project Service Areas (PSAs).

Enter MCA's Grant Portal

SSP Module on MCA's Resource Exchange

MCA has released a new module on our Resource Exchange focused on the BEAD Subgrantee Selection Process including information about the application portal and requirements, a deeper dive into PSAs, and resources to support with the application process.

Enter the Module

The Subgrantee Selection Process (SSP) is a two-step process through which MCA will evaluate and select prospective applicants and determine how BEAD funding will be distributed to specific Project Service Areas (PSAs). During Pre-Qualification Evaluation, MCA will evaluate prospective applicants on their readiness to manage a BEAD-funded project in Maine. Prospective applicants that are authorized through Pre-Qualification will be admitted to the BEAD Project Application phase where the final PSAs will be available to bid on. Timing of the BEAD Project Application is expected to be later in 2024, and will be determined by NTIA's approval of Maine's BEAD State-Led Challenge Process data.

Visualizing MCA's Mission

The Maine Connectivity Authority’s Broadband Intelligence Platform presents important data about internet access and service in Maine. The interactive map below includes information about broadband service availability and funding awards.

For a list of service providers at a specific address, click here to access the FCC's map.

Use this tool on a mobile device

Service Classification Map: Based on June 30, 2022 FCC Broadband Data Collection. Accessible maps are available upon request by emailing info@maineconnectivity.org.

Recent & Upcoming Meetings

The Maine Connectivity Authority Board of Directors meetings are open to the public in a virtual format. Meetings serve as an opportunity to learn about MCA's strategy and activities as well as funding and partnership opportunities. Click here to view recordings of previous meetings.

November 15, 2024

MCA Board Meeting