NTIA Broadband Technology
Opportunities Program (BTOP)
This link lists grants for Massachusetts Broadband >>
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New: Information on the definitions and requirements of the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and BTOP programs is now available through the the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for Broadband Initiatives Program and Broadband Technology Opportunities Program at broadbandusa.gov
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.