Iowa innovation needs broadband

Iowa stands at the edge of a digital revolution. With more than$400 million in federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding poised to flow into our state, we have a historic opportunity to bridge the digital divide. But this is more than just an infrastructure challenge — it’s our chance to modernize Iowa’s broadband networks and unlock new economic potential in rural unserved and underserved communities across our state.

Reliable, high-speed internet is foundational to Iowa’s economic growth, educational success, and community prosperity. Yet, more than 84,000 locations across Iowa remain unconnected.

Consider precision agriculture. This cutting-edge technology allows farmers to optimize planting and resources to increase yield, but it all hinges on reliable broadband access.

The challenge isn’t limited to agriculture. Rural families without reliable broadband access struggle to participate in online educational opportunities, access telehealth services, or even apply for jobs and government programs.

This infusion of BEAD funding presents an unprecedented opportunity to close these gaps. Getting there, however, requires our state leaders to choose BEAD partners who have proved that they can deliver robust, future-proof broadband infrastructure.

Iowa’s broadband office should prioritize experience and accountability when selecting subgrantees. Building broadband networks on time and on-budget is non-negotiable. Delays or cost overruns jeopardize the goal of achieving universal connectivity across the state. That’s why the state should partner with experienced providers with track records of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects efficiently and reliably.

Our state’s broadband leaders should also ensure the networks built are future-proof; this funding is a one-time opportunity to build connectivity infrastructure that will serve Iowans for decades. Fiber-based technologies, in particular, provide the scalability and reliability to meet both current and future demands for high-speed connectivity. Iowa should prioritize providers with a long-term commitment to deploy future-ready networks that won’t require expensive upgrades within a few years.

Finally, we must remember broadband isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s about empowering people and communities. Our state leaders should work with providers who have demonstrated a commitment to looking beyond the initial network builds. These are providers who are dedicated to truly bridging the digital gap by offering affordable broadband options, supporting digital literacy programs, and reaching underserved communities.

Broadband infrastructure is the backbone of Iowa’s competitiveness and innovation. It drives advancements in agriculture, education, health care, entrepreneurship, and more. By making smart, forward-looking decisions now, we can ensure that every Iowan has access to the tools and opportunities they need to set our state up for a more connected, prosperous, and innovative future.

Clara Wulfsen is the Executive Director of the Iowa Cable and Telecommunications Association