Vermont Internet for All Planning

In April 2023, Vernonburg Group was selected from a number of bidders to work with the State of Vermont, specifically the Vermont Community Broadband Board (VCBB), on their plans to achieve universal broadband availability and to improve digital equity for all Vermonters. This includes their DEA Digital Equity Plan, as well as their BEAD Five-Year Action Plan and Initial Proposal.

Our responsibilities have included designing and executing a robust stakeholder engagement plan—including identifying and engaging with stakeholder organizations, planning public engagement events and public comment periods, the integration of stakeholder feedback into plan drafts, preparing technical, financial, and policy components of the plans, and providing strategic guidance as Vermont prepares for plan implementation. We are also responsible for ensuring that these plans meet the NTIA’s expectations and will allow Vermont to receive its full funding allocation from both the BEAD and Digital Equity programs, while also accurately reflecting the policy priorities and lived experience of the Vermont public.

Vermont has an extremely unique and well-articulated vision for achieving universal broadband. We are working with the VCBB to understand its vision and what is unique about Vermont and its population. Our goal is to help Vermont manifest its vision, while ensuring that policy solutions are effective and the plans will meet NTIA requirements. We are equally prepared to support other clients engaging in developing comprehensive plans to achieve Internet for All.