In order to take advantage of this program, applicants must engage with state agencies and apply by September 30, 2022. This grant program is made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, which allocated $65 billion for new broadband infrastructure projects. While the program may seem complicated, it is actually relatively straightforward. To ensure that you are getting the most bang for your buck, read our helpful guide below. This article covers Eligibility, Requirements, and Partnerships to make the most of this opportunity.
NTIA’s Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program
The NTIA’s Enabling Middle-Mile Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program is now accepting applications for its next round of funding. This program supports broadband infrastructure in rural areas and expands the reach of middle-mile networks. It can fund up to 70 percent of the cost of the project, but the total cost cannot exceed $100 million. Applications for the next round of funding will be accepted from June 21 to September 13, 2022. To apply, network operators must complete an online application portal through the NTIA’s Application Portal.
Eligibility
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is taking applications for the Broadband Infrastructure Program, a federal grant program for high-speed Internet and related projects. The program has requested more than $2 billion to support projects in all 50 states and U.S. territories. The Broadband Infrastructure Program will provide grants to eligible partnerships that include a fixed broadband service. Applications were accepted until Tuesday, August 17.
ALSO READ: Billie Eilish Breaks the Internet With a New Instagram Photo
Requirements
The Broadband Infrastructure Program (BIP) is now accepting applications. Non-profit organizations, public-private partnerships, and local governments can apply for the program. To qualify for a grant, organizations must have a minimum of 100 Mbps downstream and offer low-cost service plans. Grant recipients must complete network deployment within four years of receiving grant funding. Further information about eligibility requirements can be found here. In the meantime, interested applicants should keep an eye out for upcoming announcements.
Partnerships
The Commerce Department is taking applications for the Partnerships for Broadband Infrastructure Program. The legislation passed in late December allocates $7 billion to support broadband infrastructure initiatives to expand access to the internet and close the digital divide. As a result, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) became the steward of the program, which supports broadband deployment projects through covered partnerships. A covered partnership is a public-private partnership between a state and a fixed-line broadband provider.
Right of first refusal
A key consideration for a local broadband provider is whether or not he has a right of first refusal. The right of first refusal is a stipulation that requires the applicant to offer an equal match to the provider’s initial bid. In the case of an internet provider, this right applies when the applicant promises to expand service in a certain area in 180 days or less. The provision requires the refuser to comply with the agreement unless delays are due to causes beyond the provider’s control.