Overview
In 2025, Research and Education Networks (RENs) stand at a critical juncture. As federal broadband and digital inclusion funding shifts in scope and availability, RENs must position themselves as agile and resilient. With a growing need to ensure connectivity for educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and underserved communities—as well as to support research infrastructure—now is the time for RENs to leverage new funding pathways and expand their strategic role in broadband deployment.

Mobile Beacon, a nonprofit internet service provider, offers RENs a scalable, cost-effective solution to supplement traditional infrastructure. Our partnership model helps RENs deliver unthrottled, high-speed wireless broadband at just $10/month per device, increasing last-mile resiliency and digital equity in their regions.

The Current Funding Landscape
While programs like the Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) and Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program were instrumental in 2021–2024, 2025 introduces new challenges:

• BEAD Program Deadlines: States are beginning subgrantee reviews and planning grant disbursements. RENs must be prepared to integrate with state broadband offices.
• E-Rate Modernization in Limbo: Pending FCC rulemakings leave future E-Rate device eligibility uncertain.
• IIJA/ARPA Expiration: Stimulus-era funding sunsets mean RENs must explore long-term, sustainable network solutions.
• Threats to Research Funding: Budget uncertainty also puts REN-affiliated research institutions at risk. Reducing operational costs—such as internet service—can help maintain core research activities.

How RENs Can Increase Network Resiliency
To adapt to this funding transition, RENs should consider:

• Disaster Recovery Readiness: Mobile broadband serves as a resilient backup during natural disasters or fiber outages.
• Last-Mile Gaps: Hotspot and LTE/5G solutions from Mobile Beacon can supplement access in hard-to-reach areas.
• Device Diversification: Deploying tablets, hotspots, and routers—or utilizing BYOD (bring your own device) options—reduces capital risk and increases flexibility.

Why Partner with Mobile Beacon?
Mobile Beacon offers:

• Truly Unlimited Data: No throttling, caps, or hidden fees.
• Nationwide 5G/4G Service: Connectivity on T-Mobile’s expansive wireless network.
• $10/Month/Device Pricing: Easily deployable service without complicated procurement.
• BYOD Options: RENs can use existing equipment, making deployments faster and more affordable.
• Bulk Device Solutions: Flexible programs for short-term or long-term deployments, ideal for REN member institutions looking to balance cost while maintaining uptime.
• EduLink Program: Provides affordable, flexible connectivity options to students, faculty, and staff at eligible educational institutions, helping institutions bridge access gaps.
• Employee Purchase Program (EPP): Extends Mobile Beacon’s low-cost service to employees of qualifying organizations, providing an additional tool to support remote work and research needs.

Case Study Snapshot: OSHEAN
In partnership with OSHEAN, Mobile Beacon supports a regional disaster recovery plan across Rhode Island, enabling higher ed institutions and libraries to activate wireless connectivity within hours of a service disruption. This ensures minimal downtime and maintains access to critical online resources.

Case Study Snapshot: CENIC
Following the Eaton Fire, which forced the Altadena Main Library to close for two months, CENIC worked to restore critical connectivity services for affected libraries and educational institutions. Mobile Beacon supported these recovery efforts by providing flexible, wireless broadband solutions that helped bridge service gaps during the rebuilding period. Our affordable, rapid-deployment hotspots enabled institutions to quickly resume operations and restore essential services to their communities without overburdening strained infrastructure.

 
Let’s Build a Resilient Future Together

As federal funding landscapes shift, RENs have the opportunity to lead. Partnering with Mobile Beacon empowers you to extend your reach, increase infrastructure redundancy, and enhance digital equity for your members.

Learn more at mobilebeacon.org/REN or contact Joseph Gleason at [email protected] to discuss custom partnership opportunities tailored to your region.