Veronica PiscitelliFloridaCommerce has launched the Office of Broadband Grant Registration Portal with the intention of streamlining the application process for future broadband grant programs. The grants will fund programs connecting Florida’s small cities and rural communities to internet through workforce and infrastructure initiatives. The projects also create opportunities for local job seekers and employers.
The Broadband Grant Registration Portal is a precursor to the Broadband Application Portal. Applicants will first preregister in the Registration Portal where they will get credentials for the Application Portal. The preregistration will help confirm the applicants’ eligibility before the actual application cycles open.
Since 2020, FloridaCommerce has been actively facilitating programs to provide high-speed internet to unserved and underserved businesses, homes, farms and community anchor institutions. Small cities and rural communities have received 85% of broadband infrastructure grants that ensure the workforce, educational and health care institutions and all Floridians have access to reliable internet.
In April 2025, FloridaCommerce furthered its mission, launching a major initiative to deliver the required workforce to upgrade the state’s communications networks. The undertaking is in partnership with CareerSource Florida, the REACH Office, the Florida Department of Education, state and technical colleges and Local Workforce Development boards, as well as other groups. All parties are collaborating to attract, train and deliver the workforce needed to bring broadband internet to all of Florida.
The FloridaCommerce Office of Broadband is preparing to open the grant application windows for the BEAD Development program, the BEAD Workforce grant program and the Digital Capacity Grant program. Each of these will fund projects focusing on broadband infrastructure, workforce and economic opportunities, cybersecurity and digital literacy initiatives throughout the state, especially in small cities and rural communities.
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