Sponsored content contributed by AOC Business Partner: Finley
Bringing Better Broadband to Oregon’s Counties
The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program represents Oregon’s most significant opportunity in a generation to bridge the digital divide. As counties throughout the state evaluate the best ways to deliver high-speed internet to unserved and underserved regions, the Association of Oregon Counties has a vital role to play — and Finley is ready to assist.
What is BEAD?
BEAD is a federal program that aims to expand high-speed internet access for every American, especially in rural and underserved areas. Oregon’s BEAD initiative is managed by the Oregon Broadband Office (OBO), which has divided the state into coverage areas aligned with the school district system.
Oregon received $689 million of funding through BEAD, based on metrics like service availability and need, and is currently deploying those funds. The 2020 SNG report to the OBO highlighted how widespread the need is, particularly in rural counties. This report clearly shows the demand for reliable connectivity and reinforces that Oregon will still fall short even with BEAD funding. Access the OREGON Broadband Study here.
Discover how Finley can help your county connect by clicking on “The Finley Connection.”
Why It Matters to Your County
Your county stands to gain tangible and measurable benefits from BEAD-funded broadband expansion in several ways.
Tourism: By directly contributing $14 billion and 118,000 jobs, tourism and broadband connectivity help to generate revenue for Oregon counties. Increased connectivity and tourism foster an environment that attracts visitors, remote workers, and events, encouraging Oregon’s guests to stay longer and spend more, ultimately enhancing your county’s success.
Improved Metrics: Better connectivity means improved access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunity for all Oregonians.
Agricultural Advancements: Modern agriculture depends on reliable internet, from cattle tracking, wheat storage, production automation, and irrigation systems.
Economic Growth: Studies show a clear link between broadband expansion, increased county GDP, increased tax base, job creation, and long-term generational prosperity. (See: CORI Report)
IoT Innovations: From soil sensors to automated chemical-free weed control to grain bin automation, modern ag tech depends on strong broadband infrastructure.
How Your County Can Shape BEAD’s Success
Depending on goals, resources, and local conditions, counties can engage with BEAD in multiple ways.
Public-Private Partnership: Directly apply for BEAD funding and subcontract providers to meet county-set goals.
Public Ownership: Apply to OBO to build a publicly operated broadband network.
Commit Matching Funds: Facilitate a local RFI or RFP process and back the provider(s) who align with your county’s priorities.
Show Support: Provide letters of support or advocacy for private applicants requesting funding.
Each approach offers benefits, but also complexities.
What Comes Next?
Now is the time for counties to take action:
Engage with the OBO: Learn the latest on your area’s eligibility and advocate for your community’s unique needs.
Understand the Process: The BEAD program is technical, jargon-heavy, and fast-moving. Ensure you have the right knowledge and allies on your side.
Utilize Expert Partners: This is where Finley can help.
At Finley, we focus on assisting counties like yours in navigating the broadband process—from identifying funding opportunities and forming partnerships to creating strategies that align with local priorities.
We have partnered with clients nationwide, giving us the insight and experience necessary to support your county at every stage. From public-private partnerships to grant writing, engineering design, and community engagement, Finley is your advocate in BEAD.