Funding approval moves expansion of reliable broadband forward in Hawaiʻi

Hawaiʻi will soon begin drawing federal infrastructure funds to ensure universal broadband access through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program following official approval from National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

“This approval is an important step toward bringing better internet connectivity options to communities across our state,” said Hawaiʻi Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke in announcing the major milestone.

Luke leads Connect Kākou, a statewide initiative focused on making sure people throughout Hawaiʻi have reliable access to high-speed Internet as well as the tools and knowledge to safely and confidently use it in their everyday lives.

“Reliable high-speed internet is no longer just a convenience; it helps keep our communities resilient, informed and connected to education, jobs, healthcare and each other,” Luke said.

Hawaiʻi’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment final proposal identified about 7,000 locations throughout the islands eligible for federal funds.

University of Hawaiʻi Broadband Office made preliminary awards to two telecommunications companies — Hawaiian Telcom and low-Earth orbit satellite provider Amazon Leo — following a competitive request for proposals process.

Hawaiʻi is slated to receive roughly $149 million in Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment funds to ensure universal broadband access.

Approval from National Telecommunications and Information Administration allows University of Hawaiʻi Broadband Office to finalize the two contracts and articulates how Hawaiʻi can use funds for last-mile deployment work, including building and construction, as well as monitoring, project oversight, permitting expertise and support functions.

The contracted performance period is 4 years for Hawaiian Telecom and 10 years for Amazon Leo.

Expenditure of funds for any other purposes remains restricted, subject to forthcoming National Telecommunications and Information Administration guidance, likely in early 2026.

This approval marks a major milestone in a years-long nationwide effort to provide affordable, high-speed broadband access to all Americans.

“We’re excited to take the next step in the execution of the [Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment] program and remain fully committed to achieving universal access for residents throughout our state,” said University of Hawaiʻi Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer Garret Yoshimi in the state’s announcement.

Click here to view the state’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment final proposal.