Candace BarnetteThe Texas Broadband Development Office (BDO) reaffirmed its commitment this month to launch a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite Grant Program intended to expand broadband access in rural areas, according to Greg Conte, director of the Texas BDO. The program, first announced in January, is set to receive $30 million from the state’s Broadband Infrastructure Fund, with detailed program guidelines expected to be released early to mid-April 2025.
“Expanding broadband access is critical to the economic prosperity and social well-being of all Texans,” Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said in the initial announcement. “This grant program will leverage the power of LEO satellite technology to connect unserved communities and ensure Texans in remote areas of the state have the opportunity to thrive in the digital age sooner than traditional programs may allow.”
Conte testified in front of the House Committee on S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband this week, highlighting agency accomplishments and initiatives to date, as well as partnerships with other state agencies to expand connectivity.
“Following a protracted and lengthy federal review and approval process, the office is poised to begin accepting BEAD applications from prospective applicants as early as May, subject to forthcoming updated federal guidance,” Conte said. “The state’s $3.3 billion allocation will facilitate a competitive grant process targeting approximately 260,000 eligible locations. The program’s objective is to achieve universal broadband access for all Texans. The BDO anticipates these federal funds and state support from the Broadband Infrastructure Fund will achieve this objective.”
He went on to add that the Texas BDO will ensure all expenditures comply with any revised federal guidelines, and awardees will have four years to complete projects once awards are final.
Conte said broadband connectivity for Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs) is a priority, and he emphasized that the Texas BDO is actively supporting reimbursement programs for utility pole replacements, with $28 million already disbursed to impact 19,000 poles. The LEO satellite pilot program will play a key role in reaching remote locations where fiber-based solutions are not viable, targeting areas of the state that did not receive acceptable funds during previous grant rounds.
The Texas BDO’s LEO satellite initiative is expected to complement the state’s fiber-focused Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) program by targeting areas that remain underserved. The pilot program will allow the state to assess the effectiveness of LEO satellite technology in providing high-speed internet to isolated communities before expanding the program statewide.
Policy shifts favoring satellite broadband over fiber-optic infrastructure have sparked debate, while recent federal budget freezes have further complicated state-level broadband initiatives. Despite these challenges, Texas continues to push forward with its broadband expansion efforts.
For updates on the program and upcoming application guidelines, visit BroadbandForTexas.com.
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