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2024 Annual Report

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Message 12024REPORTANNUALgen connectivity

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11Board of DirectorsTABLE OF CONTENTS01Notice of Annual Meeting0273rd Annual Meeting Agenda03 President & CEO Perspective06Secretary/Treasurer Financial Report07 Operating Statement08 Balance Sheet10Nominating Committee Report122024 Annual Meeting Minutes142024 Scholarship Winners152024 Community Partnership Grant Recipients

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1TABLE OF CONTENTSNOTICE OFANNUAL MEETING73RD ANNUAL MEETING | THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2025Notice is hereby given that the 73rd Annual Meeting of the members of BEK Communications Cooperative will be held on June 12, 2025 at a new location this year – Kramer’s Blue Room, 622 Main Street, in Strasburg.Supper will be served at 5:30 PM at Kramer’s Blue Room in Strasburg. Members will register prior to being seated for supper. The meeting will be called to order at 7:00 PM (a quorum being present).The purpose of the meeting is to receive reports, elect directors, and review activities. REGISTRATION & SUPPER | 5:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.BEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVE ANNUAL MEETING | 7:00 P.M. If you are unable to attend but would still like to participate, please consider joining us on TV or online:BEK EPIC IPTV• Ch-26 West ND• Ch-27 East NDMidco• Ch-609 Bismarck• Ch-612 Minot• Ch-605 FargoDirect TV• Ch-26 West ND• Ch-27 East NDDish Network• Ch-24 West ND• Ch-27 East NDOver-the-Air: • Ch-26.1 Southwest ND• Ch-24.1 Northwest ND• Ch 27.1 Eastern NDOnline• Facebook• BEK TV+ AppLIVE MEETING BROADCAST

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2MEETING AGENDACall Meeting to OrderNational AnthemInvocationOcer’s ReportElection of DirectorsManager’s Report Questions & AnswersOther ReportsUnnished BusinessAdjourn

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3PRESIDENT & CEOPERSPECTIVEAt BEK, we are leading the future of telecommunications with our state-of-the-art fiber-optic network. As demand for high-quality video, business collaboration, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and virtual reality grows, fiber is the key to unlocking endless possibilities. BEK Fiber delivers unmatched speed, reliability, and security, ensuring that our members and communities benefit from world-class connectivity right here in North Dakota.The Power of Fiber: Building Stronger Communities• Unmatched Speed & Bandwidth Lightning-fast downloads, seamless streaming, and high-capacity performance.• Reliable & Resilient Built to withstand interference and weather disruptions.• Expanding Rural Connectivity Committed to bridging the digital divide by bringing high-speed internet to remote areas.• Sustainability Fiber optics reduce environmental impact while maximizing eciency.• Ultimate Security Data is transmitted securely using light signals, minimizing cyber risks.• Future-Proof Technology Designed to support growing digital needs for decades.• Cybersecurity Protection Enhanced safeguards to protect networks, devices, and data from cyber threats.BRETT STROHBoard of Directors PresidentDERRICK BULAWACEO/General Manager

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4Elevating BEK’s Role: More Than a Provider, A Trusted PartnerTelecommunications is evolving, and BEK is embracing this transformation with enthusiasm. Traditional models focus solely on connectivity, but BEK is expanding our role to become a technology partner, committed to enhancing the digital experience for our members.BEK’s Competitive Edge: Leading the Way in InnovationThe telecommunications landscape is more competitive than ever, with mobile networks and cloud providers expanding rapidly. BEK has the technology, customer service excellence, and infrastructure to stay ahead. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that BEK members enjoy the best services available—right here at home.Expanding Services to Enrich Your LifeBEK is committed to providing more than just high-speed internet. We continue to expand our services to enhance homes and businesses:• IP Voice & IPTV High-quality phone and television services• Security & Surveillance Smart home and business security solutions• Cybersecurity Solutions Comprehensive digital security services to protect homes and businesses from cyber threats, hacking, and data breaches• Precision Agriculture Supporting local farmers with innovative, data-driven toolsWhy This Matters to You• Greater Value for Members More services mean more benefits• Enhanced Customer Experience Making digital life easier and more enjoyable• Stronger, More Connected Communities Investing in technology supports the local economy and improves quality of life• Improved Digital Safety Proactive cybersecurity measures to help protect personal and business data

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5The Results:• Greater Member Satisfaction Services that meet real needs• Stronger Relationships A cooperative that listens and adapts• Continued Growth A bright future for all BEK membersLooking Ahead: A Bold Future for BEKBEK is not just keeping up with change, we are driving it. Our investment in fiber infrastructure has built a strong foundation, and now we are embracing cloud-based solutions to expand our capabilities and enhance our services.The Benets for You:• Scalability Flexible solutions that grow with your needs• Cost Savings Advanced cutting-edge services without unnecessary expenses• Reliability High-performance technology for uninterrupted service• Future-proofing Staying ahead so you can too, with secure adaptable solutions designed to keep pace with evolving cybersecurity and digital advancementsAs we move forward, BEK is focused on delivering next-generation services and solutions to keep our members, customers, and businesses connected, secure, and thriving. Together we are committed to driving innovation and reliability for the future.AWARDS & HONORSTechND• North Dakota Technology Champion - John NagelNTCA 2024 Cyber Champion• BEK Communications (Second Consecutive Year) John Nagel, Jim McMillan, Jeremy Grossman, Tim Swartz Bismarck Tribune’s Best of the Best• BEK TV as Best Local Television Station (Fourth Consecutive Year)• Lori Hinz as Best TV PersonalityEric Sevareid Awards - BEK TV• First Place for NCAA Basketball: Minnesota Crookston vs University of Mary - Chris Brintle • Award of Merit for NAIA Basketball: Jamestown vs Valley City State - Brett Loftis• Award of Merit for NCAA Baseball: Southwest Minnesota State vs Minot State - Dan Doherty

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6In today’s rapidly globalizing and technologically advancing world, telecommunications companies find themselves at the intersection of expansion and innovation. BEK Communications Cooperative stands out in this dynamic landscape, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in connectivity. By investing in state-of-the-art fiber-optic infrastructure, BEK is not just keeping pace with global trends, it’s setting new standards in the industry.As we delve deeper into BEK’s strategic advancements and financial health, it becomes clear that BEK is a front-runner in ushering in the next generation of internet technology.At the core of BEK’s financial strategy is a commitment to sustainable, community-driven growth. For more than 15 years, BEK has prioritized organic expansion over reliance on grants. Now, as the state nears 100% fiber connectivity, grant opportunities are diminishing. BEK’s focus on self-sustained investments has allowed it to maintain control over operations while staying true to local values. This prudent approach ensures long-term stability and resilience, even amid market fluctuations.BEK remains dedicated to reinvesting in its network, staying ahead of industry trends, and delivering state-of-the-art solutions. By emphasizing innovation and service, we strengthen relationships with our member-owners and customers, driving retention and brand loyalty. Our financial strategy reflects a balance of technological advancement, operational sustainability, and community investment.Financial OverviewIn 2024, BEK continued to meet all financial obligations, making regular debt payments, including $4.5 million in principal on long-term debt. Our debt maturities range from 2028 to 2033.Revenue Breakdown: Federal Universal Service Funds: 31% Broadband: 30% Telephone: 11% IPTV: 9% BEK Connect: 7% Care Solutions: 5% BEK TV: 5% Miscellaneous: 2%Total patronage for members subscribed to phone and/or internet services amounted to $9,900,000. There was no allocation in 2024 due to grant funding tax liability, with the total cooperative member capital credits at $59,900,000.SECRETARY/TREASURERFINANCIAL REPORTBILL BECKERBoard of Directors Secretary/TreasurerKEY POINTS:$165,309,063 total assets 8,324 total square miles served11,953 network customers7,493 total miles of fiber

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7OPERATING EXPENSES 2024 2023CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OFINCOMEWireline $ 17,418,792 $ 18,292,877Internet 13,493,718 12,799,579 Television 3,788,036 3,923,050 Miscellaneous 9,700,137 8,220,031 $ 44,400,683 $ 43,235,537OPERATING REVENUES 2024 2023NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSE) 2024 2023Interest and Dividend Income $ 4,418,514 $ 3,695,764Allowance for Funds Used During Construction 17,723 48,398Interest Expense (1,559,334) (1,801,154)Gain (loss) on Sale of Assets (7,006) -Amortization of Goodwill and Intangibles (1,213,521) (1,312,821)Other Non-operating Income (expenses) 68,870 448,416Income from Aliates 634,971 661,266 2,360,217 1,739,869 Net Margins Before Income Taxes 4,909,423 3,356,271Income Tax Expense (benefit) (613,776) 444,378 Net Margins from Continuing Operations 5,523,199 2,911,893 Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax (128,407) (159,744) Net Margins $ 5,394,792 $ 2,752,149 BEK’s commitment to community and technological excellence remains unwavering. The strategic focus on sustainable growth and innovative solutions ensures that BEK not only meets the current demands but also anticipates the needs of future technologies.With a robust financial strategy and dedication to community values, BEK is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the telecommunications sector, providing cutting-edge services that empower local communities and foster customer loyalty. As we look to the future, BEK’s trajectory is marked by continuous improvement and an enduring pledge to deliver the very best in connectivity.Plant Specific Operations $ 6,457,610 $ 6,063,113Plant Non-specific Operations 521,027 523,876Depreciation 6,323,882 7,010,109 Customer Operations 4,130,161 4,441,726Corporation Operations 2,855,577 3,409,914Other Taxes 34,604 37,973 Non-regulated 21,528,616 20,132,424 41,851,477 41,619,135Operating Margins $ 2,549,206 $ 1,616,402

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8ASSETSBALANCE SHEETCURRENT ASSETS 2024 2023Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 763,808 $ 1,131,814Subscriber Accounts Receivable, net 603,284 827,334Settlements & Access Accounts Receivable, net 1,106,128 1,209,774Other Accounts Receivable 124,795 257,965Materials and Supplies 1,841,372 3,825,195Income Taxes Receivable 252,246 -Other Current Assets 1,063,006 1,276,729TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS $ 5,754,639 $ 8,528,811NON-CURRENT ASSETS 2024 2023Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net $ 8,291,838 $ 9,717,243Investment in Aliates 7,133,575 6,777,567Investment in Non-Aliates 6,848,186 6,804,933Operating Lease Right-of-Use Asset 1,600,861 1,811,064 Other Non-current Assets 25,000 39,500TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS $ 23,899,460 $ 25,150,307PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT 2024 2023Regulated Plant in Service $ 171,428,401 $ 146,706,606Regulated Plant Under Construction 3,945,622 6,270,810Non-Regulated Plant in Service 90,898,713 89,318,213Non-Regulated Plant Under Construction 165,259 69,866 266,437,995 242,365,495 Less Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization 130,783,031 120,829,600TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT 135,654,964 121,535,895 TOTAL ASSETS $ 165,309,063 $ 155,215,013

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9LIABILITIES & MEMBER EQUITYBALANCE SHEETCURRENT LIABILITIES 2024 2023NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 2024 2023Deferred Revenue $ 25,392,376 $ 14,977,506Other Non-current Liabilities 2,178,195 2,178,195Lease Liability 1,653,871 1,786,928Deferred Taxes 1,728,952 2,347,428TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 30,953,394 21,290,057MEMBERS’ EQUITY 95,750,531 90,570,375TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY $ 165,309,063 $ 155,215,013Accounts Payable, General $ 4,706,039 $ 4,767,833Current Maturities of Long-Term Debt 4,572,541 4,399,164Unsecured Line of Credit 3,615,264 3,800,000Accrued Income Taxes - 27,260Current Portion of Leases Liabilities 134,615 126,001Other Accrued Liabilities 1,424,691 1,440,960Other Accrued Taxes 12,627 16,004TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 14,465,777 14,577,222LONG-TERM DEBT, Net of Current Maturities $ 24,139,361 $ 28,777,359

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10NOMINATING COMMITTEEREPORTBurnstad, Lehr, Napoleon, Wishek, ZeelandBill BeckerDISTRICT IVBraddock, Hague, Hall Hazelton, Kintyre, Linton, Strasburg, Temvik, WestfieldHolly WillDISTRICT IIICrystal Springs, Dawson, Lake Isabel, Lake Williams, Pettibone, Robinson, Steele, Tappen, TuttleNo ElectionDISTRICT IIArena, Driscoll, Menoken, McKenzie, Mot, Regan, Sterling, Wilton, WingShane MorrisDISTRICT IDISTRICT V WESTApple Valley, Baldwin, Bismarck, Fort Rice, Hu, Lincoln, MandanNo ElectionDISTRICT V EASTAbsaraka, Alice, Berea, Bualo-Wheatland, Eckelson, Embden, Dazey, Bualo, Hannford, Hope, Karnak, Luverne, Leal, Nome-Fingal, Page, Sanborn-Rogers, Sibley, Sutton, Tower City, Valley City, WalumNo ElectionEach year, the member-owners of BEK Communications Cooperative elect directors at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting in June.The 2025 Nominating Committee of BEK Communications Cooperative met on Friday, February 28, 2025, to nominate members of the cooperative to run for the open Board of Director seats. BEK Communications Cooperative member-owners residing in Districts I, III, and IV will elect one director, each to a 3-year term.Serving on the 2025 Nominating Committee are: Anton Braun, Burnell Paul, Helen Senger, Tom Welder, and Elaine Mittleider.There are two ways to become nominated for Director: 1 ) by the Nominating Committee, or 2 ) by petition, as provided in the Cooperative’s bylaws (Article IV, Section 4). The bylaws are printed in the BEK/West River Missouri Slope Telephone Directory and are available on the BEK Communications Cooperative website. On June 12, 2025, members of BEK Communications Cooperative will have the opportunity to vote for these candidates for the Board of Directors. Standing: Burnell Paul and Tom WelderSitting: Anton Braun, Helen SengerNot Pictured: Elaine Mittleider

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11DISTRICT IVDISTRICT V EASTDISTRICT V WESTBILL BECKERSecretary/TreasurerED EVERSON CHARLIE DUNBARDISTRICT ISHANE MORRIS SANFORD WILLIAMSDISTRICT IIIKEVIN BERNHARDTVice PresidentHOLLY WILLBRETT STROHPresidentDISTRICT IIBOB SUBARTBOARD OFDIRECTORS

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12The 72nd Annual Meeting of the Members of BEK Communications Cooperative (the “Cooperative”) was held at the Kidder County School in Steele, North Dakota, on June 13, 2024, pursuant to the Notice of Annual Meeting previously mailed to all Members. The meeting was also broadcast live on television, BEK’s homepage, and BEKTV+.At 7:00 p.m. President Stroh introduced Pastor Jacob DeBoer, Trinity Lutheran Church, Steele and Dawson, and he gave the invocation.The James K. McAleer Amvets Post 20 Steele presented the Colors and Stacey Svanes, Kintyre, sang the National Anthem. President Brett Stroh called the meeting to order and announced that as of 7:00 p.m. there were 139 Members present. President Stroh announced that the Cooperative received 249 signed mail-in ballots and 51 electronic ballots. There was a quorum to proceed (439). President Stroh announced that Notice of Annual Meeting was completed on May 10, 2024, as indicated in the Annual Report mailed to Members. There was a motion and second to dispense with reading of the Notice of Annual Meeting and the motion passed.President Stroh announced that the Certificate of Mailing was completed on May 10, 2024. There was a motion and second to dispense with reading of the Certification of Mailing and the motion passed.The minutes of the 2023 Annual Meeting were presented to the Members on pages 16-17 of the Annual Report. President Stroh requested the Members to vote on the approval of the 2023 Annual Meeting minutes. President Stroh asked the Members if any Member wanted the minutes read and none did. The Members voted to approve the annual meeting minutes from 2023.President Stroh presented his President’s Report as published on pages 3-5 of the Annual Report. The written report of Secretary/Treasurer Bill Becker was published on pages 9-13 of the Annual Report. Secretary/Treasurer Becker relinquished his time to present his report to the Cooperative’s Auditor, Chris Skidmore of Moss Adams, to comment on the report and the financial status of the Cooperative after the elections. President Stroh then recognized Gerald Burlack who is retiring from the Board of Directors after 12 years of diligent service. President Stroh presented Director Burlack with a clock to show gratitude for his service.President Stroh then introduced the Board’s attorney, Monte Rogneby from the Vogel Law Firm, to present the election procedure. Mr. Rogneby then explained the election procedures for the Board of Directors including the methods by which candidates may be nominated: nominating committee and petition. Mr. Rogneby announced the report of the Committee on Nominations which met on February 28, 2024. The Cooperative did not receive any petitions for director candidates.Mr. Rogneby explained that elections will be held in District II, District V West, and District V East for the Board of Directors. In 2024 ANNUAL MEETINGMINUTES

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13Mr. Bulawa turned the meeting over to Mr. Rogneby to announce the election results: Mr. Rogneby then turned the meeting over to President Stroh.President Stroh inquired of the Members whether there was any old business and there was none.President Stroh inquired of the Members whether there was any new business and there was none.President Stroh thanked the Members for their participation and adjourned the business meeting at 8:10 p.m.CEO Bulawa then conducted the door prize drawing. Bill Becker, SecretaryAPPROVED:Brett Stroh, PresidentDistrict II Brett Stroh, incumbent from Tappen, was the only nominated candidate. In District V West, Jim Haussler, Bismarck, and Charlie Dunbar, Baldwin, were nominated. In District V East, Ed Everson, Hannaford, was the only nominated candidate. Mr. Rogneby invited President Stroh to address the Members and he declined. The Members from District II voted for Director for District II.Mr. Rogneby invited Ed Everson to address the Members and he did so. The Members from District V East voted for Director for District V East.Mr. Rogneby then noted that Charlie Dunbar could not attend the meeting due to urgent business travel and a short video message from Mr. Dunbar was played for the Members. Mr. Rogneby invited Jim Haussler to address the Members. Mr. Haussler addressed the members. The Members from District V West voted for Director for District V West. Mr. Rogneby turned the meeting back over to President Stroh who introduced Chris Skidmore from Moss Adams. Mr. Skidmore presented the Cooperative’s audit report.President Stroh then introduced the Cooperative’s CEO Derrick Bulawa. Mr. Bulawa presented to the Members a short video entitled “2023 Year in Review”, highlighting the operations of the Cooperative over the previous year. Mr. Bulawa provided to the Members his CEO report. Mr. Bulawa answered questions from the Members and introduced special guests in attendance.DISTRICT V West:Charlie DunbarJim HausslerCHARLIEDUNBARELECTED YES NO SPOILED ABSTAIN RESULT 341 2 0 27 APPROVEDMINUTES FROM 2023 ANNUAL MEETINGDISTRICT II:Brett StrohDISTRICT V East:Edwin EversonBRETTSTROHELECTED 48 X 0 0 30 79 X 0 3 81 X 0 1EDWINEVERSONELECTED

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14ALLISON BRYNBarnes Co North HighGRACYN HOLZERLinton HighMALACHI HUBERStrasburg HighABIGAIL HULMLinton HighGRACE KEENEYHMB HighTY MEHLHOFFWing HighRILEY RICHTERLinton HighSTRAN RESSLERMandan HighESTHER STEINKEHope-Page HighALEXANDER TERNESLegacy HighIn the last 73 years, BEK Communications Cooperative has built a strong foundation dedicated to serving our members and their families. Giving back is at the heart of what we do, which is why we proudly support the students who represent the future of our communities.Each year, BEK awards scholarships to hardworking, college-bound students within our service area, continuing a tradition that has lasted more than 25 years. This year, we were pleased to receive 38 applications from outstanding high school seniors in our service areas. To learn more about, or to apply for, the BEK Scholarship, visit bek.coop/academic-scholarship/.Congratulations to the ten (10) $500 scholarship winners! May you continue to pursue excellence and make a lasting impact on the world around you!2024 WINNERSSCHOLARSHIPS

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152024 GRANTS AWARDEDCOMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPBEK Communications Cooperative has always been committed to serving and strengthening the communities we call home. Supporting the groups and organizations that make our service areas thrive is a key part of our mission.To further this commitment, the BEK Board of Directors created the Community Partnership Program, a grant initiative designed to meet both current and future community needs. Grants are awarded twice a year, in the spring and fall, providing vital support to local projects and initiatives.Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations or community groups within BEK’s service area. If your organization could benefit from this program, we encourage you to apply! For more details, or to submit an application, visit bek.coop/coop/cpp.Congratulations to the 2024 Community Partnership Program grant recipients!• Abused Adult Resource Center• Apple Creek School• Central Dakota Children’s Choir• City of Napoleon• City of Strasburg• City of Wishek• Hillside Cemetery Association• Kidder County Council on Aging• Kidder County District Health• Linton Park Board• Logan Food Pantry• Pettibone Fire Protection• SMP-St. Raphael• Steele Volunteer Fire Department• Sweet Briar School• Tuttle Senior Center• Wilton Pioneer Activity Center• Wing Booster Club• Wishek Elementary School• Wishek Fire Protection District• Zeeland Community Center2024 Grant Recipients

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200 East BroadwayPO Box 230Steele, ND 58482701.475.2361 | 888.475.2361 | bek.coopgen connectivity