The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established the Alaska Connect Fund to support the advancement of mobile and fixed broadband services in Alaska, particularly in rural and high-cost areas.
The initiative aims to address the challenges and high costs associated with providing broadband services in the state and hopes to ensure residents have access to high-quality, affordable internet comparable to other parts of the U.S.
The Alaska Connect Fund will provide ongoing support to mobile and fixed carriers through 2034, with increased funding to meet higher-speed service goals.
The program includes a two-phased approach: the ACF Transition and the Fixed ACF, which independently focus on maintaining and operating broadband networks.
According to a public notice on the Fund’s announcement, the FCC has set a goal for broadband speeds of at least 100/20 Mbps download and upload speeds and will provide flexibility for areas where these speeds are not feasible.
The program also seeks to support mobile broadband deployment, with a focus on upgrading networks to 5G and addressing unserved and underserved areas.
The FCC will use the National Broadband Map to identify areas lacking adequate service and allocate support accordingly.
The initiative complements other federal and state broadband funding programs and is part of a broader effort to ensure digital equity and bridge the digital divide in Alaska.