FSF
Members of Congress, Industry and Non-Profit Stakeholders React to NTIA Funding Rules
Though most groups issued their support, others voiced reservations.
The Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program is a $42.45 billion initiative administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration of the U.S. Commerce Department. Established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, BEAD aims to expand high-speed Internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs.
FSF
Though most groups issued their support, others voiced reservations.
Alan Davidson
Fund disbursement procedures for three new federal broadband programs are now publicly available.
Infrastructure
The long awaited notice of funding opportunity laid out the system for how each applicant program will be scored.
Commerce
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) details parameters of Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.
Infrastructure
Alan Davidson urges the importance of state activity in deploying broadband funds.
Infrastructure
Digital literacy gap and lack of outreach are part of the digital divide.
Expert Opinion
Increased focus on middle mile is necessary for access to effective connectivity.
Broadband Live
Money coming from the IIJA must be flexible and include extensive private contributions, Davidson said at Broadband Breakfast event.
Alan Davidson
Apple CEO is not a fan of the legislation that would allow third-parties to bypass Apple store payments.
Infrastructure
Gary Bolton and Shirley Bloomfield called on NTIA Administrator Alan Davidson to prioritize applicant investing in “future-proof” fiber.
Infrastructure
Some state laws, as written, may run counter to IIJA language and constrain the use of federal funds.
Infrastructure
The playbook was discussed in a webinar Friday afternoon.
Infrastructure
Those interested in federal money should engage in outreach, build solid teams, Broadband.Money head Jase Wilson said.
IIJA
Debate at an NTIA event over whether or not funding should go to the middle-mile.
IIJA
Attendees questioned how digital equity progress can be measured and how underserved populations are educated on technology use.
Broadband Live
NTIA is likely to continue to oversee the $42.5 billion for broadband from the IIJA.