Last week, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved new rules to accelerate investments in 5G mobile wireless broadband services for rural communities. The bipartisan vote revives the 5G Fund for Rural America, leveraging the FCC’s updated broadband coverage map, which identifies millions of households and businesses lacking access to 5G networks. The initiative aims to connect these underserved areas with modern wireless technology, with up to $9 billion allocated for Phase I of the program through a multi-round reverse auction.
The auction will use data from the FCC’s Broadband Data Collection, including its Mobile Speed Test app, to ensure resources are directed to the areas most in need. To encourage innovation, the program also includes $900 million in incentives for deploying Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology, which supports competition and supply chain reliability. The fund also increases the budget for tribal communities and includes regions in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Recipients of 5G Fund support must also adhere to cybersecurity and supply chain risk management standards.
• FCC reignites 5G Fund for Rural America with new rules and up to $9 billion for Phase I.
• Updated broadband maps show millions of rural households lack 5G mobile coverage.
• Reverse auction to distribute funds based on FCC’s improved mobile coverage data.
• $900 million in incentives for Open RAN deployment to enhance competition and security.
• Tribal communities and territories such as Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands will be included.
• Recipients must implement cybersecurity and supply chain risk management plans.
“With the progress we’ve made in mapping broadband service availability, there is no reason to wait to put the 5G Fund to work connecting households and businesses in rural communities across the country,” said Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
