Broadband
New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion
Deploying high-speed internet to the entire state is vital to helping New Mexicans obtain access to key services, such as telehealth, education, economic development, communication and home-based business.
The New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) is at the forefront of coordinating broadband deployment efforts in New Mexico. Established in 2021 by the Legislature, our office works closely with stakeholders to ensure efficient and effective broadband deployment.
Mission, Vision & Values
Mission
To lead New Mexico's broadband expansion through statewide planning and data-driven decision-making; to reinforce collaborative partnerships with New Mexico's Tribes, counties and local communities; to ensure universal access to affordable, high-quality connectivity; and to support meaningful use of the internet for all families, businesses, and community institutions.
Vision
Achieve enterprising, affordable broadband solutions for New Mexicans that honor the state’s rich heritage and elevate quality of life for all.
Values
Innovation
Embracing inspired and imaginative ideas at the speed of technological change.
Collaboration
Working alongside communities and industry partners providing essential services.
Respect
Honoring New Mexico's rich history and diverse cultural heritage alongside future advancement of industry.
Evidence
Connecting New Mexico with reliable data and analysis to guide our decisions.
Results
Focusing on improving outcomes and iterating on past achievements.
Funding
As part of our mission, OBAE collaborates with the Connect New Mexico Council and oversees the Connect New Mexico Fund, which received significant appropriations totaling $100 million. Additional state funding includes $7 million from the Community Connect Program, a public Wi-Fi expansion initiative. Through these state-level legislative mandates, substantial federal funding, and strategic partnerships, OBAE is dedicated to driving equitable broadband solutions, bridging the digital divide, and enhancing connectivity for all New Mexicans.
Enabling Legislation
To better coordinate broadband deployment efforts among different state entities, 2021 Legislation established the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion and Connect New Mexico Council.
- The Broadband Access and Expansion Act (Senate Bill 93) (PDF, opens in a new tab)
Created the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion.
- The Connect New Mexico Act (House Bill 10) (PDF, opens in a new tab)
Created the Connect New Mexico Fund.
- Appropriations (Senate Bill 377) (PDF, opens in a new tab)
Appropriations totaling $100 million for the Connect New Mexico Fund.
Programs
Broadband Equity Access & Deployment Program
Explore BEAD and New Mexico's BEAD Plan for comprehensive information and resources on broadband access, education, and adoption initiatives within the state.
Learn About BEAD (opens in a new tab)
Statewide Education Network
Discover the Statewide Education Network, known as the SEN, New Mexico's solution for improved school connectivity in remote areas, providing expert network management and serving as the state's 'broadband highway' for education.
Explore the SEN (opens in a new tab)
Funding Opportunities
Explore a range of OBAE funding opportunities, including resources for infrastructure development and deployment, as well as expansion of community programs that support meaningful and safe adoption and use of the internet for all.
View Funding Opportunities (opens in a new tab)
Workforce Training Opportunities
The New Mexico Office of Broadband Access & Expansion (OBAE) is working collaboratively to mobilize and support building a broadband workforce in New Mexico. Learn more about the new Building Industry Consulting Services International (BICSI) Broadband training opportunities.
Workforce Training (opens in a new tab)The Connect New Mexico Council
The Connect New Mexico Council (CNMC) is a mandated coalition of appointed industry experts and stakeholders dedicated to improving broadband access in New Mexico with working groups that focus on Digital Readiness & Adoption, Legislative Policy, Mapping & Right of Way and Tribal Concerns. By collaborating with stakeholders, CNMC aims to bridge the digital divide statewide.
Monthly council meetings are open to the public and held on the third Thursday of each month. To find out more about CNMC or access meeting links and minutes, click below:
Mapping & Data Hub
The OBAE Mapping & Data Hub contains detailed interactive maps of broadband coverage, service availability, and grant funding in New Mexico. Users can access a wealth of information and gain valuable insight regarding strategic planning and the expansion of high-speed connectivity statewide.
Explore Maps (opens in a new tab)Reports
Explore a collection of reports submitted by the New Mexico Office of Broadband Access and Expansion. This Report Library is your gateway to in-depth analyses, research findings, and vital information related to broadband access and expansion efforts in New Mexico.
Visit the Report Library (opens in a new tab)The Office of Broadband Access and Expansion maintains its own website with full program details, news, and resources.
Visit Connect NM Website (opens in a new tab)