BISMARCK – The North Dakota Department of Information Technology announced on Monday, Dec. 1, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration has approved the state’s final Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment plan, which when implemented is planned to make the state the first with 100% broadband coverage.

According to the NDIT, this coverage was achieved through decades of investment in high-quality fiber throughout the state, enabling every home and business to have access to high-speed internet services.

NTIA data shows that more than 95% of North Dakota households have access to download speeds of at least 100 Mbps, with more than 70% able to reach gigabit speeds. Building on this strong connectivity, NDIT refined its BEAD plan earlier this year through a strategic rebidding process, enabling the state to lower deployment costs and prioritize rural areas in the process.

“While we’re incredibly proud that North Dakota is widely recognized as one of the best connected states in the country, our main focus has always been on our citizens,” said Corey

Mock, chief information officer for the State of North Dakota. “This approval represents a major

leap forward in achieving universal connectivity. With BEAD funds now unlocked, we can close

the remaining gaps, strengthen our communities, support economic growth, and ensure every

North Dakotan can fully participate in the digital world.”