Request for Proposals for Broadband Build for Unserved Locations (Coronavirus Capital Project Funds)

The New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is seeking qualified vendors to construct broadband infrastructure for unserved locations through a Request for Proposals (RFP) funded by Coronavirus Capital Project Funds. The procurement aims to connect properties with internet speeds below 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, with a preference for fiber-optic technology that can deliver symmetrical 100/100 Mbps speeds. Eligible projects include last-mile connections, digital connectivity technology, and infrastructure that enables work, education, and health monitoring. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scoring system considering 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). The RFP was released on December 8, 2025, with vendor inquiries due by December 12, 2025, and final agency responses by December 17, 2025. Proposals must be submitted electronically by December 23, 2025, at 4:00 PM EDT, with vendor selection anticipated on January 13, 2026, and a targeted Governor and Executive Council meeting on February 11, 2026.

Eligible applicants are limited to New Hampshire municipalities, qualified internet service providers authorized to do business in the state, or both. The procurement emphasizes organizations such as cooperatives, non-profits, and government-affiliated entities. While no specific set-aside designations were mentioned, the RFP requires vendors to provide comprehensive documentation, including four municipal references, current client count, full-time employee details, and evidence of financial capability. The total funding available does not exceed $2,096,771, subject to Governor and Executive Council approval. Vendors must provide a performance bond and comprehensive insurance, including $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate general liability coverage. All projects must be completed by December 31, 2026, and are subject to compliance review by the State of New Hampshire and the U.S. Department of Treasury. Successful vendors will be responsible for project completion, subsequent operation, and maintenance, with grant payments made upon substantial completion.