We’ve been…well, listening in to the listening sessions held by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) regarding the use of potential Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program non-deployment funds. This week, NTIA held its second session on the subject, which concluded just before the deadline for written input on what to do with non-deployment funding. Between the two sessions, roughly 85 people were able to communicate their non-deployment ideas to NTIA staff. Broadband adoption (including affordable broadband, low-cost devices, and digital skills training) is the most supported use mentioned over both meetings. Here’s what speakers said during round two, and how it compares to the first session last week. The two non-deployment listening sessions contained a few recurring themes that steered the conversation amongst everyone who was able to speak. By our estimates, these key topics were mentioned by the speakers at the rates given below:

  1. Broadband Adoption: Affordability, Device Access & Digital Literacy                                                       43 (times mentioned by speakers)
  2. Workforce Development                                                                                                                           22
  3. Broadband Affordability                                                                                                                            13
  4. Regional/Local Flexibility                                                                                                                         13
  5. Permitting Reform                                                                                                                                    12
  6. Middle Mile & AI infra                                                                                                                               12

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