attachment-1-rfp-dbea-2026-01-ad.pdf

This Request for Proposals (RFP) document is issued by the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs, Office of Broadband Initiatives, seeking qualified applicants to construct broadband infrastructure serving unserved locations throughout the state. The RFP solicits proposals to build out high-speed broadband networks connecting properties with internet speeds below 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, with preference for fiber-optic technology capable of delivering symmetrical 100/100 Mbps speeds. Eligible projects include last-mile connections, digital connectivity technology, and infrastructure supporting work, education, and health monitoring. Vendor inquiries must be submitted by December 12, 2025, with final agency responses due December 17, 2025. Proposals are due electronically by December 23, 2025, at 4:00 PM EDT. Vendor selection is anticipated on January 13, 2026, with a targeted Governor and Executive Council meeting scheduled for February 11, 2026. All projects must be completed by December 31, 2026.

Eligible applicants are limited to New Hampshire municipalities, qualified internet service providers authorized to conduct business in the state, or collaborative combinations thereof, with emphasis on cooperatives, non-profits, and government-affiliated entities. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scoring system assessing organizational structure (10 points), staff experience (20 points), work methodology (20 points), offered speeds (20 points), budget approach (10 points), and cost per passing (20 points). Vendors must provide four municipal references, current client count, full-time employee details, and evidence of financial capability. The total available funding does not exceed $2,096,771, subject to Governor and Executive Council approval, with funding sourced from Coronavirus Capital Project Funds. Successful vendors must provide a performance bond and comprehensive insurance with minimum $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate general liability coverage. Grant payments are made upon substantial completion, with successful vendors responsible for project completion, operation, and maintenance through the contract term.