Article
- Fiber network construction
- Internet service
- RDOF
- Communications service providers
Got broadband funding? Now what?
Have you received or considered applying for public funding to complete your broadband buildout? Governments across the globe are allocating more resources than ever before to increase the availability of high-speed internet access in underserved areas. In November 2021, the United States Federal Government passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) allocating $65 billion1 toward the expansion and affordability of broadband coverage to aid in closing the digital divide–the largest sum set aside by the government for internet improvement initiatives in the country to date.
The passing of IIJA and similar funding initiatives have opened up space for additional opportunities in both the private and public sectors. In response, numerous proposals have been submitted in an effort to add sources of revenue or diversify offerings. However, with various avenues to achieve coverage objectives, newcomers may find themselves unsure of where to begin. Below are four considerations before starting on your grant-funded broadband projects.