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Stimulus Legislation Guide - Merit Network, Inc.






Broadband USA

The Broadband USA web portal was created in an effort to streamline the application process for the first round of ARRA broadband funding. It is shared by both the NTIA's Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) and the RUS Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP). All of the proceeding links as well as additional information can be found at www.broadbandusa.gov.
Searchable Database of Applications - Website

BroadbandUSA has compiled a database of all applications that were submitted to both BTOP and BIP for public viewing. Users can searched based on State (where applicant is headquartered), Proposed Project Area (where the project stands to benefit), Organization, Keyword and Type of Project (last-mile, middle-mile etc).

ARRA Broadband Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA) - 121 page pdf

NTIA and RUS have issued a combined Notice of Funds Availability (NOFA) solicitation for the first round of funding for their respective ARRA Broadband competitive grant programs, Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) and Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP). This link will allow you to read and print the entire 121 page NOFA. It contains a breakdown of funding as well as application guidelines and proposal requirements. Information regarding BTOP Public Computing Center and Sustainable Broadband Adoption grants is contained in this NOFA. NOTE: the deadline for this application period has passed. This link will be updated for future funding rounds.

ARRA Broadband Infrastructure Application Package - 39 page pdf, 20 uploadable attachments in pdf and Excel format

NTIA and RUS have issued a streamlined application for the first round of funding for their respective ARRA Broadband competitive grant programs, Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) and Broadband Initiatives Program (BIP). This link will allow you to download the entire application package. NOTE: the deadline for this application period has passed. This link will be updated for future funding rounds.

BTOP Public Computing Center Application Package - 15 page pdf, 9 uploadable attachments in pdf format

The Public Computing Center category of BTOP funding will fund projects that expand public access to broadband service and enhance broadband capacity at entities, such as community colleges and public libraries that are open to public use free of charge. This link will allow you to download the entire application package. NOTE: the deadline for this application period has passed. This link will be updated for future funding rounds.

BTOP Sustainable Broadband Adoption Package - 16 page pdf, 9 uploadable attachments in pdf format

The Sustainable Broadband Adoption category of BTOP funding will fund innovative projects that promote broadband demand, including projects focused on providing broadband education, awareness, training, access, equipment or support, particularly among vulnerable population groups where broadband technology has traditionally been underutilized. This link will allow you to download the entire application package. NOTE: the deadline for this application period has passed. This link will be updated for future funding rounds.

Buy American Waiver - 4 pdf

The Secretary of Commerce has granted a limited waiver of section 1605 of the ARRA with respect to particular broadband equipment that will be used in BTOP-funded projects. This press release contains any further information necessary.

ARRA Broadband Infrastructure Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - 31 page pdf

The Broadband USA portal posted a FAQ document that is updated with frequency. Any confusion resulting from a lack of direction in the BIP-BTOP Application or confusion with the language of the NOFA should be rectified with this document prior to sending a question to the BroadbandUSA Help Desk.

Broadband USA Help Desk (helpdesk@broadbandusa.gov)

Questions needing further clarification can be directed Helpdesk@broadbandusa.gov or 1-888-861-5509.




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