rfp-dbea-2026-01-scoring.pdf

This is a scoring results document from the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs (DBEA) for Request for Proposals (RFP) DBEA 2026-01, which seeks qualified vendors to construct broadband infrastructure for unserved locations using Coronavirus Capital Project Funds. The RFP targets properties with internet speeds below 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, with preference for fiber-optic technology delivering symmetrical 100/100 Mbps speeds. Proposals were due December 23, 2025, at 4:00 PM EDT, with vendor selection anticipated January 13, 2026. The RFP evaluation employed a 100-point scoring system assessing organizational structure (10 points), experience and qualifications of key staff and contractors (20 points), approach to scope of work methodology (20 points), offered speeds (20 points), budget approach and cost effectiveness (10 points), and cost per passing (20 points). All projects must be completed by December 31, 2026, with grant payments made upon substantial completion.

The scoring results identify NHEC as the highest-ranked proposer with 91.67 points and a grant funds request of $869,890, followed by Fidium with 77 points and a grant funds request of $300,000. One proposal was deemed non-compliant. Eligible applicants were limited to New Hampshire municipalities, qualified internet service providers authorized to conduct business in the state, or both, with preference for cooperatives, non-profits, and government-affiliated entities. The total funding available did not exceed $2,096,771, subject to Governor and Executive Council approval. Vendors were required to provide performance bonds and comprehensive insurance with $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate general liability coverage. Successful vendors are responsible for project completion, subsequent operation, and maintenance, with all projects subject to compliance review by the State of New Hampshire and the U.S. Department of Treasury.