Federal Programs
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November 30 update: Secretary Bialecki submits suggestions on improving/streamlining future rounds of federal broadband stimulus funding. Read more here>>
The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announce a joint Notice of Funding Availability in the Federal Register. Funding available in this first round is approximately $4 billion of the $7.4 billion appropriated under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. On July 8, 2009, RUS and NTIA presented a workshop to give an overview of the definitions and requirements for entities wishing to learn more about broadband funding. To view the presentation materials visit the Workshops section of broadbandusa.gov.
RUS Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP) Loans and Loan Guarantees
Of the $4 billion allocated in the first round of funding, the RUS was allocated $2.4 billion. In order to apply for funding from the RUS, 75% of the area being served must be rural and without sufficient access to high-speed broadband to facilitate rural economic development. Priority will be given to applications for broadband systems that will allow end users to have a choice of more than one service provider, to projects servicing the highest proportion of rural residents, and to borrowers or former borrowers under Title II of the Rural Electrification Act of 1936.
NTIA Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP)
Competitive Grants
NTIA will allocate up to $1.6 billion in competitive grants to eligible entities that include: states, political subdivisions of states, municipalities, nonprofits or private companies. The majority of funding $1.2 billion will pay for broadband infrastructure. At least $150 million of the NTIA funds must go to programs that encourage sustainable broadband adoption, while an additional $50 million in grants are set aside for expanding public computer center capacity.
NEWS ALERT
On July 17th, Governor Patrick signed H4158, “An Act Providing for Economic Recovery through Broadband Initiatives.” It is now Chapter 33 of the Acts of 2009. Read the Chapter >>
MBI Press Release
Governor Patrick Files Broadband Legislation to Prepare the Commonwealth for Access to Federal Stimulus Funds
Bill to Ensure Massachusetts Captures Funding Opportunities
BOSTON – Monday, April 27, 2009 – As part of his Massachusetts Recovery Plan to secure the state’s economic future, Governor Deval Patrick has filed legislation to help leverage federal economic recovery funds to boost broadband services throughout Massachusetts. Read the Release >>
Read the Letter to the Legislature and Authorization Act >>