Specifications include, but are not limited to: The state of North Dakota, acting through its Information Technology Department (the STATE) is soliciting proposals for a consultant that will assist the STATE in developing a statewide 5 Year Broadband Plan; The STATE seeks consulting and advisory services to: Create a Five-Year Broadband and Digital Equity Action Plan as defined by the IIJA It is expected that the awarded Offeror shall perform market research, financial projections, and stakeholder outreach to provide potential strategies for implementation. The objective of this plan is to understand a step-by-step process the STATE must pursue to ensure success for the duration of the funding cycle in the IIJA and to have a plan to be able to implement the activities under the IIJA. This includes developing the initial and final proposals to secure grant funding. Perform and Document North Dakota’s Digital Equity Asset Mapping The identification and evaluation of North Dakota’s Digital Equity assets will allow the STATE to assess and develop a comprehensive Digital Inclusion Program that will address digital awareness, education and adoption. This mapping should also include assessment of other state’s DE plans/programs and identify any gaps or shortfalls the STATE has and recommend revisions and/or additions to the STATE’s Digital Inclusion Program. Advise on IIJA timelines, specifically regarding funding opportunities, and evaluate in concert with CPF There are numerous different programs that are coming together to provide support for broadband initiatives, including the capital projects fund, the DE, and the BEAD program in the IIJA. The awarded Offeror shall create a report that lays out the numerous timelines that highlight the different funding opportunities for broadband expansion and how they may interact. This report will also identify any other funding sources that may be available through the federal government. Create a compliance road map for IIJA and BEAD The awarded Offeror shall create a detailed recommendation consisting of various tools that will aid the STATE in meeting all the required reporting and compliance throughout the full implementation of BEAD and DE funding opportunities. Including, but not limited to, the beginning at scoping and research of administrative funding, through the final stages of administering funding, Offeror shall be prepared to offer a report of milestones with deadlines, requisite submissions if any, and any other relevant materials to ensure Broadband North Dakota is on target to obtain and administer federal funds. Offeror will establish reporting requirements for use of federal funds in regard to IIJA (BEAD and DE).
